Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower battery, overhead valve engines, hp briggs

Question
I have a 1995 white gt185 with a 18 hp briggs, can I install a automotive battery without causing any problems?
Thanks for your advice past and present you make me look good. Jerry

Answer
Hello Jerry:

You can View a Breakdown of the Mower at this Site Addy; http://www.whiteoutdoor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/topcategory_10301_17502_-1 and Select "Buy Parts and Accessories." Now Select "Use our Detailed Parts Finder" on the Lower Right of the Page. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. This Unit should be an MTD/White Outdoor Model Number 145U836H190. There should be No Reason to Install a Car Battery to Any Small Engine if it Came from the OEM with a Small Engine Battery to Start the Engine. If a Small Engine Battery Seem to Not have the Amperage to Start the Engine, then Usually the Problem is Either the Battery, Starter Binding or the Engines Valve Clearances Require Setting. Setting the Valve Clearance will Adjust the Compression Release and then the Small Engine Battery will have No Problems Starting the Engine Properly. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. Many horizontal shaft, overhead valve engines have these numbers stamped into the OHV rocker cover. However, on certain overhead valve powered generators, the equipment manufacturer installs a decorative chrome rocker cover OVER the Briggs cover. If your engine has a decorative cover, it may be necessary to remove it in order to locate the Model, Type, and Code. You can Also Use this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/BS_modeltypecode.pdf for Assistance in Locating the Model, Type and Code Numbers of the Engine. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John