Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): kawasaki fc420v-ks09 help, 4 stroke engines, compression stroke

Question
hi i have a Kawasaki fc420v-ks09 when i try starting this it will backfire and shot fire from carb i took valve cover off took it to tdc one side seems real loose do you think this is the valves and how do i set them back thanks for your help PS it has good spark and carb is good and clean

Answer
Hello Randy:

This can be Caused by a Sheared/Damaged Flywheel Key, or the Valve Require Adjustment. You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.buykawpower.com/kmcb2c/main.jsp and Select View Parts Catalog. Then Select 4 Stroke Engines. Select the FC420-S09 Engine. To Properly Set the Valves you have to Set the Engine to TDC on Compression Stroke. With the Valve Cover Off, Rotate the Engine in the Direction it Turns when Running. Watch the Cam and Valves. As you Turn the Engine by Hand Watch the Intake Valve and When Intake Valve Closes, then Place a Screw Driver or Pencil into the Spark Plug Hole and Slowly Turn the Engine Until the Pencil/Screw Driver Stops Coming Out off the Hole. Now Set Both the Intake and Exhaust Valves. Loosen the Valve Adjuster Lock Nut on Both Valves. The Clearance is .006in for Both Valves. Use a Blade Feeler Gauge. If you Require More Detailed Instructions, let me Know. 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