Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 25hp Bent & Broke Push Rod & Valve Adjustment, twin cylinder engines, valve adjustments

Question
Hi John, What would cause my 4 year old B&S 25hp OHV lawn tractor's number 2 cylinder to bend both push rods (intake & exhaust) and also break the intake push rod of number 2 cylinder. Number 1 cylinder's push rods are fine. Also, how do I adjust the valves on this engine? Engine Model Number: 446777....Engine Type: 0165E1....Engine Code: 030212YG..."Thanks~Alot"

Answer
Hello Butch:

All the OEMs are Having Problems with the Valve Adjustments Loosening and Causing this Problem. I Use Blue Thread Loc on the Valve Adjuster Locks to Help Prevent this and it Seems to Work. 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. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John