Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs Intek 18 HP, twin cylinder engines, compression stroke

Question
I have a B&S 18 HP Intek Model 31h777-0202-e1 that runs just fine except for one thing.  The engine "balks" when trying to start. A new battery has been installed and is fully charged.  Tractor is less than 2 years old.  When you turn the key to start position, Engine starts to turn over until it hits compression and then stops and finally after a second or two, will continue to turn over until you hit the compression again.  Once you get the engine turning over, tractor starts fine.  Almost appears that there might be a compression release somewhere on the engine that is not working.  Is there such a thing and if so, where might I find it.  I might add, that once it is running, tractor will then start pretty easy but still has a slight hesitation when turning over.  All electrical connections are tight and solenoid ok.  I have even run the battery leads direct to the starter and same thing.

Answer
Hello Gordon:

This has Become a Common Problem for ALL the OHV Engines. Reset the Valve Clearance. Resetting the Valve Clearance will Correct this Problem. The Compression Release Operates Off of the Cam and Uses the Exhaust Valve to Release a Minute Amount of Compression During Starting. **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) 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 this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model (5 or 6 Digits) and Type Numbers (first 4 digits Only). Example: 31H777-0202. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. 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

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Respectfully

John