Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Wont Start, fuel air mixture, briggs and stratton

Question
I have a 16.5 Briggs and Stratton OHV and it wont start but it backfires through the carb. What will cause that to happen.

Answer
Hello Alex Taylor, the reason why you getting backfire is when the fuel-air mixture ignites before it is supposed to. This is usually due to improper timing. This is a sign of poor engine operation. Get yourself a manual. Also make sure when you do the timing make sure that the valves close at the proper time.