Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 1988 Tecumseh 12 hp ovxl120, bolt torque, push tube

Question
The intake push rod slipped of the rocker arm.  Trying to reassemble.  I believe I need to find TDC before reassembly. Can you tell me how to find tdc? 4 cycle engine.1988 tecumseh 12hp ovxl120.  Thanks!

Answer
Hello Jeff:

Put the Push Tubes Into the Engine and Hold them with you Hand. Turn the Engine; Watch and Feel the Push Tubes Move. When the Intake Push Tube Is on the In Stroke, Stop the Engine when the Push Tube Stops Moving in. Turn the Engine Until the Coil/Magneto Lines up with the Magnets on the Flywheel. Go 1/4" Past the Magnets and Set the Clearances. On Some Models you can Put a Pencil in the Spark Plug Hole and Turn the Engine Until the Pencil Stops Moving Out of the Plug Hole and then Set the Valve Clearances. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the T. Then Select Tecumseh. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Enter the Model Numbers. Then Select your Model and Download the File for Online Viewing. The Head Bolt Torque is 230 Inch Pounds or 20 Foot Pounds. The Valve Clearances are; Intake: .003in - .005in and Exhaust: .003in - .005in. 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