QuestionQUESTION: My mower was new in 1998, always changed the oil and filter and air filter inside of recommended, and lats last fall it started losing power during a mow, then a slight knock, then 1/2 power. I pulled the plug wires to see which cylinder (was the left, facing front of mower) and thought it was coil related. Then for grins, I pulled off the front cover and found bent push rod. What would have caused this, given extra maint. care/
ANSWER: The bent push rod is just a "Briggs Thing". Replace the push rods and try again. If it happens again you have a valve that is sticking in the guide. This is generally caused by poor quality fuel. Buy a product called "Sea Foam" it trully is a wonder elixer. No other brand! SEA FOAM! It will be available at all boating stores and most auto parts stores. Add some to your fuel and your oil per the instructions. This trully is the greatest product made for small engines.
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QUESTION: Thanks Paul. One more thing - is it as simple as replacing the push rods, or, if the valve is sticking in the guide,any chance the valve stem is bent or i should replace the valve and guide? I wonder if it is a costly repair, or do myself - I am reasonably good with mechanics. thanks.
Answer75% of the time replacing the push rod is all it takes. If that fails, and you used "Sea Foam", you will need to replace the head. The cost of machining and the tools to do a valve guide ream are more than the cost of a new head.
Did I mention using "Sea Foam"?
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SEA FOAM!!
