Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Rider w/Briggs wont get to high speed, twin cylinder engines, time preston

Question
QUESTION: I have a rider with an 18 horse Briggs. Model #31H777, Type 0202E1, Code 030520ZE. It wont get to high rev. I have cleaned the carb, then replaced w/ new carb, changed oil, fuel, fuel lines and filter, air filter, and plug.I've disconnected governer too, to no avail. any ideas? Thank you

ANSWER: Hello Preston:

Remove the Belts from the Engine Pulley. Does the Engine Rev Up Now? If Yes, then Check the Idler and Other Pulleys for Binding or Bad Bearings. 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 and Type Numbers (first 4 digits Only). 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. 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

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: John,
That did not do it. Even sitting there in neutral with the parking brake on idling, it will not get to high enough speed. Any more ideas?
Thank you for your time
Preston

Answer
Hello Again Preston:

Check the Valve Clearances. 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 .008in - .010in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. If the Valve Clearances are Good, then Check the Compression. If the Compression is 80 PSI or Below, then Remove the Cylinder Head and Check the Valve Face and Valve Seat. The Valves  May Require Reseating. 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. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. 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