Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton 16hp Vanguard Engine blowing smoke, briggs and stratton, briggs stratton

Question
Hello,

I have a 16HP Vanguard Briggs and Stratton Engine on my Cox Lawnmower here in Australia.  The Model: is 28Q777, Type: 0639-A1, Code: 960920ZO.

I have a problem where the oil in being dumped in the air filter.  I have cleaned the sump breather and it seems to be working the way it should.

I have also checked the oil level as I have been told overfilling the oil will cause oil to be dumped out this breather pipe – oil level is ok.

Anyway I am wondering if the head gasket could be blown between two ports, not being an expert on these engines and only going off advice from my local dealer.

If the head gasket could be blown, I can get a new gasket from my local dealer for $35 AUS, but how do I know what to tension the head bolts back up to?

I have taken the valve cover off, but haven’t run the engine with this off.

I am using a penrite SAE30 4 stroke small engine oil and have serviced the engine several times since I have had in around 18 months.

Any help would be appreciated.


Answer
Hello Nick:

You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model (5 or 6 Digits) and Type Numbers (first 4 digits Only). Example: 28Q777-0639. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Select Sectional Index. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. From your Description it Sounds like the Head Gasket is Blown as you Described. This is Becoming a Common Problem with these Engines. The Torque Specifications can be Located at this Site Addy; http://outdoorpowerinfo.com/engine_specs/ . If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John