Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Steel & Aluminum Rod Installation Location, aluminum rod, steel aluminum

Question
Stupid question, but I will ask.  I removed the head of my 17hp B&S to install a helicoil because of a cross threaded plug.  That's fixed and I'm now ready to reinstall the head but I'm not sure about the steel vs aluminum rod installation location.  I should have marked installation holes prior to removal, but I didn't....  Steel rod must be the exhaust, but which installation hole is for exhaust?

Answer
You're correct that the steel rod is the exhaust.  If you look at the valves, you will be able to follow the ports to the intake and the exhaust.  The intake valve will be closest to the intake and the exhaust to the exhaust.  And the exhaust valve stem will probably be dirtier than the intake.  Let me know if you have any questions.  Thanks, PK.