Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): valve clearance problems, not starting at all, twin cylinder engines, craftsman dlt 3000

Question
QUESTION: Dear Mr. John,
     Recently, I began having problems getting my craftsman dlt 3000 with the 18.5 hp intek plus engine started. Spoke to a local repairman and he gave the advice concerning the valves and readjusting.Well, I did, now I can't get the mower to start. I have set and reset the valves, at tdc, with intake compressed to set exhause and opposite....I have tried everything. Im concerned I am not in the correct position to set them, or im setting the wrong valve to the measurement. if the top valve is exhaust at .10, and bottom is .04 at top dead center, I get a pop and nothing else. I have tried every possible setting...please help.

ANSWER: Hello Chris:

The Engine is Set at TDC to Correctly Set the Valve Clearance. Both Valves are CLOSED when the Engine is at TDC and you Set Both Valve Clearances without Moving the Crankshaft. 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 (on Twin Cylinder Engines) the Valves on to Top Dead Center When Setting the Valve Clearance. Now Loosen the Valve Adjuster Locks and Set the Intake Valve Clearance to .003in -.005in and the Exhaust to .008in - .010in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

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

QUESTION: Dear Mr. John,
     Thank You for your help. The problem was the key pin in the flywheel had sheared. I am waiting on the new one to come in now.I do have a question though. I have noticed thatwhen finding top dead center, on one stroke, the valves are tight and then the next, they are loose. One is compression stroke, and one exhaust stroke right? I set on top of the compression stroke right?. I'll let you know how it goes when the p[in comes in. Blessings, Chris

Answer
Hello Again Chris:

When Both Rocker Arms Are Loose, you are on the Compression Stroke. Set the Engine to the Top of Compression Stroke and Set the Valve Clearance. Also Remember the FLywheel Nut is Torqued to 150ft Pounds. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John