Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 3 HP Lawn Mower, engine model type, briggs and straton


Question
I have this 3HP (1974) Briggs and Straton Lawn Mower.  Had it serviced  but still having problems with engine.  Engine has a hard time getting started,  and dies off if I don't let it warm  up  for a few minutes (5 minutes).  It then dies  after  about 5-10 minutes of use.  Then I need to let is cool a little to get it restarted.
Don't know to much  about these small engine,  and the mower information phamplet  does not give you much info.  Looks like problem may be fuel....carb?
Someone told me  there are carb kits   ....  hoq do I tell the what  carb  I have?

Answer
Carb kits generally consitsts of a diaphragm.

Due to the age of your mower, I'm guessing you have an aluminum carb and a metal tank.  The problem with these are they warp, normally the carb base. It only takes a few thousandths of an inch warpage to cause your problem.  If the carb base is warped a diaphragm will not solve your problem.  You will either have to replace the carb/tank assembly with a new one or try to "true" the carb base.

Do you have access to a microflat stone or accurate flat sander?
If you do not have either of these tools then it will be difficult to get your mower running top notch.

To tell which diaphragm you need you can either visit you dealer with your engine model, type and code number or go to the Briggs web site.

Does the engine still have points or have you upgraded to electronic ignition?

Let me know.
Eric