Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): briggs 18 hp 31h777-0202, twin cylinder engines, valve clearance

Question
I was reading the article on the timing marks and i am having a similar problem.I just put new rings and seals in the engine, lines up both marks put it back on the frame and with i was trying to start it, it sounded like it had no compression is it possible the i set the timing 180 out?
thank you in advance. Jim

Answer
Hello Jim:

Did you Deglaze the Cylinder when you Replaced the Rings? If Not this Will Cause Compression Loss. The Cylinder has to be Deglazed so the New Rings will Seat to the Cylinder Wall. If you Set the Crankshaft Mark with the Cam Mark, then the Timing is Correct. Have you Set the Valve Clearance? 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. Did you Check the Flywheel Key? If the Flywheel Key is damaged, then the Plug Fires at the Wrong Time and the Engine will Not Run even though it has Compression, Gas and Fire at the Plug. 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. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. 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