Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 31h777, 18hp intek plus, briggs and stratton, push rod

Question
My 31h777 briggs and stratton stopped running and had apparent issues. After taking off the valve cover i first noticed the rockers were extremely loose. after further investigation i found that the push rod going to the exhaust valve was bent. I was told the motors are prone for head problems and the head needs to be replaced because when the engine gets hot the rockers get stuck and are no longer able to move so the rods bend.I cant really understand how this happens and were hoping you could elaborate on it. Thanks, tyler

Answer
Hi Tyler
I haven't seen any bulletins from B&S regarding head problems. There are several reasons why a pushrod will bend, overheating, seizure, defective rod, stuck valve, lack of lubrication, etc. I have seen a rocker arm loosen up and get into a bind and bend the rod. In my opinion, your head should be fine. I know this is very general, but it would take several pages to go through everything it could be.