Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnboy 8hp Dual stage snowblower, briggs and strattion, crankcase pressure

Question
How do I know what year my snowblowers is?  It has a briggs and strattion motor  with model # 190402  type #  0654 01 and code # 7106111.  I just got it and the motor is froze.  The guy said it ran 2 years ago with he parked it, but he parked it outside.

Answer
The engine could be froze from a couple of different causes.  The year produced would be on the snow thrower you would have a model number and then a serial number serial number the first two numbers are the year of manufacture in reverse.

One of the first things to do would be to remove the else and see if the engine will turn over if it doesn't remove the blower housing this is the hosing that the recoil starter is attached to this will expose your flywheel remove the spark plug and see if the engine will turn over.  It could be a case of hydra lock where oil and/or fuel becomes trapped between the top of the piston and the bottom of the head.  It can come from positive crankcase pressure an overflowing carburetor or tipping the unit.  If the engine will not turn over with the spark plug removed and the starter removed remove the engine drain the oil and take the crankcase cover off looking inside will more than likely give your answer.  At this point if there is  internal damage I would suggest installing short block available from your dealer.  Purchase a gasket set in a carburetor kit and install those as you put the engine back together.

One last thought before pulling down the engine is checking the electric start if it has few see the starter motor be sure that the year is not engaged with the flywheel when you are trying to turn the engine year at the top of the starter is replaceable without putting a starter motor in.  Best of luck you need additional assistance please contact us.