Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower/ ohv adjustment, riding lawn mower, head gasket

Question
have a 15.5 horse briggs riding lawn mower, need help in adjusting the overhead valves, had repaired the head gasket

Answer
You will need to take the numbers from the engine in to a dealer and find out the recommended clearances (I found, on the net, recommended clearances of 0.004 - 0.006" for both valves, but you should consult a dealer to be sure).  Otherwise, the clearances are generally set at the rockers using a feeler gauge to get the correct settings.  If you just replace the head gasket and didn't touch the valve adjustments, the may only require verification and the actual adjustment may not have changed.  Hope this helps.