QuestionQUESTION: I have a 5 year old 4HP B&S engine that has run great until this year. I did my normal maintenance-new plug, new oil, clean filter, etc. however this year it is very hard to pull. Yes, I have disengaged the brake. The only thing that seems to make a difference is that it pulls fine without the plug in. Any idea and would you know the difficulty of the solution as well? Thanks in advance.
ANSWER: Hello Josh:
If this is the Easy Start Engine, then the Valve Clearance need to be Adjusted. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manuals and Better Assist you. Thanks.
Respectfully
John
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QUESTION: Here is what was on the engine:
model type code
10A902 2189 B3 01082455
ANSWER: Hello Again Josh:
Thanks for the Information. Go to this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the B. Then Select Briggs and Stratton. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Select the Filer #10. Then Select the Folder #10A900. This is the Breakdown/IPL i am using for Reference. Remove the Crankcase Breather/Vent (page 2 of 16 #8). Using a Blade Type Feeler Gauge, Set the Engine to TDC and Check the Clearance Between the Valve Stem and the Tappet. The Intake Valve Clearance should be .002in - .004in and the Exhaust Should be .008in - .010in. The Valves on this Engine have to have the Valve Stem Ground Down Slightly Until the Clearance is Achieved. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
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QUESTION: Thanks for the info. You've been very helpful.
I tried looking at it tonight but I guess I'm going to need a spring compressor tool. Know of any good sites that have them?
Also, is this a common problem? I'm just curious to know why this happened...if I did something wrong or just bad luck.
Lastly, would you recommend that I not use the mower until I fix it? I have been able to start it--although it is tough. Will I cause more damage?
ANSWER: Hello Again Josh:
This is a Common Problem with the Easy Start Engines. There have a Lobe on the Cam that Opens a Valve at a Certain Point in the Compression Stroke when Starting the Engine. When the Valve Gets Worn, it Isn't Set Close Enough to Open the Valve and the Compression Release Doesn't Operate. You can Contact Outdoor Distributors @ 1-877-707-2787. They May be Able to Assist in Purchasing the Valve Spring Compressor or Contact the Nearest Automotive Parts Outlet. They can Usually Order the Tool for you. It will Not Hurt to Operate the Engine. I have Done So Many Times and had to Listen to My Wife Tell me how a Mechanics Equipment is Always in Need of Repair. LOL Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.
Good luck
Respectfully
John
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QUESTION: Thanks for the response. So, I ordered a valve compressor tool and new head gasket...still waiting for it. I went ahead and decided to start her up and cut the grass anyway. Wouldn't you know that the hard pull is gone now. The only thing I did was put the blade back on. Not sure what happened but it runs great now. I guess I'll hold onto the valve compresser until I really need it. Weird...
AnswerHello Again Josh:
You Didn't Say the Blade was Removed. The Engine Uses the Blade as a Balancer in Connection with the Flywheel and the Counter Balance Weights on the Crankshaft. The Blade Completes the Balance on this Model Engine. Only the Engine Designed and Balanced will Run Without a Blade. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let Me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
