Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): changing oil, oil filler cap, oil drain plug

Question
Dear Ben,

I have a Campbell Hausfeld pressure washer (model PW205020LE) with a Briggs and Stranton Engine.

The engine is:
model 12H802
type 2349
code B200032758

I can't get to the oil drain plug on this engine.  The pump housing is in the way.

Is it OK to turn the engine over and drain the oil out of the dipstick opening?   I can't see any other way to drain the oil except to drill a hole in the pump housing.

Thank you for your help.  Sincerely,

Rich

Answer
Rich

The oil change procedure is a lot simpler than for an automobile as everything is readily accessible and there is no oil filter to worry about.

   * You will need a funnel, low wide container or drain pan for the used oil, and a container like a plastic milk jug for temporary storage of the used oil for disposal.

   * Spread adequate newspaper on the ground to collect any drippings.

   * Run the pressure washer for about 2 to 3 minutes to allow the oil to circulate and warm up so that it is less viscous and will flow more easily. Stop the pressure washer and remove the spark plug wire.

   * If the fuel tank is less than about 1/3 full, then you will probably not have any problems, otherwise you will have to drain some gas or remove the fuel tank so that gas does not spill out of the breather hole in the cap.

   * It is usually more convenient to just turn the pressure washer on its side, carburetor side up. This is usually acceptable for the short time that will be involved. Immediately check for any oil leakage - if there is any, we will need to avoid tipping the pressure washer as much.

   * Wipe around the oil filler cap (if you have one )with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove the dirt and grime that has likely collected there. The oil filler will either be on or near the bottom of the engine or at the top of the shroud . If it is not right at the bottom, there will be a dipstick attached to it.

   * Place your wide mouthed drain pan under the oil filler cap and remove the cap. The oil will flow into your pan. Let it continue until the dripping stops - probably 10 minutes or so.

   * Set the pressure washer upright on a level surface. Wipe any drips on the engine and deck up with a clean rag or paper towel.

   * Use the recommended oil for your engine. SAE30 is usually specified by the engine manufacturer but they will usually state that 10W-30 or 10W-40 (SG rating) are acceptable substitutes. These 'multi-weight' oils are widely available and inexpensive. Typical small engine oil capacity is just over 1/2 quart. Start low and incrementally add oil until just below full on the dipstick or at the top of the oil fill hole if there is no dipstick. DO NOT overfill. Give it time for the relatively viscous oil to find its way into the crankcase. Tipping the pressure washer back and forth a bit will help this process.

   * Replace the filler cap. Wipe up any additional drips.

   * Replace the spark plug wire. Then, start and run the engine for a couple of minutes. Wait a few minutes, then recheck the level. Top it off if needed.

   * Transfer the used oil from your drain pan to the storage container and dispose of it in an environmentally safe manner.