Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Garden Tractor died, twin cylinder engines, compression stroke

Question
Good evening I have a dlt3000 model #917.273812.  Last week, it made a loud popping sound upon opening the hood the spark plug was blown, I rethreaded the spark plug and put a new one in.  After mowing for an additional 75 minutes this evening it made a large rattling sound and vibrated that it just died.  I topped the engine oil, spark plugs seem fine, checked to make sure there was no clogs, unfortunately it is still dead.  Do you have any suggestions before I have sears come and service it?

thanks in advance

Answer
Hello Ted:

Check the OHV Rocker Arms and Push Tubes. You May Find they are Loose or Completely Off the Rocker Arms or Even Broken. Here are a Few Things to Try. 1- 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 .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 Don't Jam the Wire in the Cylinder. Usually the Piston will Push the Wire Out of the Spark Plug Hole with No Problems. According to the Sears Breakdown, this Mower has a Briggs Engine Model #31p700-0296. 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 (31p700) and Type Numbers (0296) 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