Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): hard starting 17hp briggs, twin cylinder engines, hp briggs


Question
HI John My  Poland mower has a 17 hp Briggs motor. When the battery is in real full charge it will crank but if I don't put it on the charger it won't crank unless I turn the motor back by hand so it can turn over when cranked. it turns over and cranks when I do that. I changed starter and new battery still had same problem. Also bought a new Poland with a 17.5 hp motor does same thing. Can you help me. Thanks Fred

Answer
Hello Fred:

From your Description it Sounds like the Valve Clearance Requires Resetting. **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 (Both Rocker Arms will have Play in them when the Engine is at TDC) 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.**  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 (XXXXXX) and Type Numbers (XXXX) 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