Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 31C707 Type 0154E1 Briggs, twin cylinder engines, engine gasket

Question
I was having problems starting this engine (Bolens Lawn Tractor). I saw one of your posts that said the valves need to be reset. I bought an engine gasket kit (794152) cleaned the carbon from the piston and valves. Reassembled with new gaskets and reset the valves. Engine started very easy and I had no problems until it started to get up to temperature. With the blades engaged it lost power and felt as if it was going to stall. I also noticed smoke coming from the front of the mower. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Answer
Hello Jeff:

From your Description it Sounds like the Valve Clearance May be Set too Close. 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 .007in - .009in. 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. Are you Sure it is Not a Spindle on the Mower Deck that is Binding and Dragging the Engine Down? Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers are Usually Located Under the Seat on a Sticker or Tag on the Body. 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