QuestionMy new 24 hp craftsman lawn mower model 917.28825 has 18 hrs of use. B&S engine
model 445877, type 0827 b1, code 808318. I like it, no serious complaints until now. I
read somewhere that it is a good practice to run the mower occasionally during the
winter months. (Had 10w-30 oil in it). After running it for about 3/4 hrs., I happened
to put my hand on top of the engine. The top left side was still very warm but the right
side was very cold. I never noticed any change in power since I have owned it. So I fear
it always has been running on just one cylinder. One and one-half years more warranty
remain on the engine. I feel after 18 hrs of use, serious damage to the engine, cylinder
walls and all engine moving parts due to the excess metal particles in the oil.
Compression test by sears repair service is next but what about the expensive repairs
down the road? Any advice, suggestions?
AnswerI would establish that it's actually running on one cylinder first. Usually you would notice this very quickly as there would be very little power and the entire mower would probably vibrate from the imbalance.
Just running on one cylinder probably wouldn't cause any damage. You'd just have a dead cylinder. Oil would still be splashed or pumped around and the dead cylinder's rod and piston would just rotate like normal.
Of course if there were an internal problem such as a hole in a piston, that would cause damage.
It is a good idea to start the engine and run the tractor for a little while at least every couple weeks. This helps guard against carburetor problems from stale gas.
If you're concerned that bothe cylinders aren't firing, then certainly have someone check it out. But unless there's some sort of internal damage, I wouldn't be too concerned. If you have any doubts, change the oil and filter and look for a silvery color or metal fragments in the oil.
Let me know if you have any other concerns or questions. Thanks, PK.
