Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Lawn Tractor Model# 917.273752, twin cylinder engines, craftsman lawn tractor

Question
Hi,
We are having trouble starting the tractor. When the key is turned you can hear it start to crank SLOW but it stops. We have replaced the ignition, starter and have checked and replaced the battery. While looking it over and trying to start it when the cover up. We noticed that the starter smokes after cranking. I looked for a voltage regulator but didn't locate one. I thought that maybe the starter wasn't receiving the proper voltage. I have tracked a repair manual but of course that's going to take a week or more to get. If you could give us a direction to go in that would be lovely. Thank you for your time.
Vital Stats:
Craftsman Lawn Tractor
Model # 917.273752
Briggs & Stratton Engine
Single Cylinder OHV Intek
Model # 31P777 Type # 0299-E1

Jennifer

Answer
Hello Jennifer:

This has Become a Common Problem with the OHV Engines. You need to Reset the Valve Clearance. The Compression Release is Not Operating Properly and Resetting the Valve Clearance should Correct this Problem if the Starter has Not been Burnt Up/Damaged. The Following is a Basic File I made for Setting the Valve Clearances. Any Input is Appreciated. **I Do Not Use the Setting Called for by the OEMs. I have Found that the Following Works Best. Remove the Valve Cover (on the Dead Cylinder for Twin Cylinder Engines). Set the Cylinder you are Setting the Valves on to Top Dead Center on the Compression Stroke When Setting the Valve Clearance. Now Loosen the Valve Adjuster Locks and Set the Intake Valve Clearance to .004in -.006in and the Exhaust to .006in - .008in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. Be Sure the Piston is at TDC on the Compression Stroke.** On Some Engines you can Us a Straightened Coat Hanger and Feel the Piston. Be Careful and Dont Jam the Wire in the Cylinder. Usually the Piston will Push the Wire Out of the Spark Plug Hole with No Problems. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/doclist.aspx?categ... and Enter the Model Numbers (31P777) and the First 4 Type Numbers (0299) in the Appropriate Boxes and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF. 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. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John