Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs &Stratton 31H777, twin cylinder engines, briggs stratton

Question
The head gasket failed on my 18HP intek 31H777 with only 267 hours. Lots of smoke.
I have ordered the parts but now have a reassembly question The push rods are different.  Am I correct in saying that the intake is the aluminum rod whereas the exhaust is the steel one.  Also what is the valve tolerance? Quite frankly this engine always had problems.  The dealer checked but never completely solved the backfiring problem.

Answer
Hello Al:

You are Correct about the Push Tubes. The Valve Clearances are as Follows. The Following is a Basic File I mad for this Procedure. 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 .005in - .007in. 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. 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