Briggs & Stratton 290700, 294700, 303700, 350700 User Manual

Model Series

Covered in

This Manual

290700
294700
303700
350700

Operating & Maintenance

Instructions

Model Type Code

Note: General M odel Series n umbers n oted a bove include m any s pecific n umbers
like the o n es on your en gi ne. To g et replacement p art s o r technical assistance i n
the future, write your engine Model, Type, Code and date of purchase here.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety 3-5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Engine Information 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Oil 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fuel and Starting Information 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Starting and Stopping 9-10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maintenance 11-14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adjustments 14-15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parts and Service & Storage 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Warranty Information 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PRINTED IN U.S.A.  Copyright 1999 by Briggs & Stratton Corporation FORM NO. 274273-10/99

Briggs & Stratton does not approve or authorize the use of
these engines on 3-wheel All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), motor
bikes, aircraft products or vehicles intended for use in
competitive events. Use of these engines in such applications
could result in property damage, serious injury (including
paralysis), or even death.

In the USA and Canada our 24 hour hotline is

Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201

www.briggsandstratton.com

WARNING

1-800-233-3723

Month Day Year

THE POWER IN POWER EQUIPMENT

Thank you for selecting a Briggs & Stratton engine to power your equipment.
Briggs & Stratton is committed to producing a line of engines which will make your life’s chores easier to perform. We have,

at the same time, improved the design of our engines so they are environmentally friendly . Since 1995, we have succeeded
in reducing smog-forming exhaust emissions from our engines by 70%. Briggs & Stratton’s ef forts have not stopped there.
We are also committed to designing and introducing even cleaner engines in the future, while maintaining our reputation for
excellent utility and value.

Briggs & Stratton’s environmental awareness has resulted in the engineering of the “Smart-Fill” gas can, featuring a spill
resistant nozzle which opens only when fully inserted into the gas tank, and which shuts off automatically when the tank is
full. Because refueling spills can harm the environment, the Smart-Fill container helps preserve a stronger ecosystem by
reducing this source of pollution.

We hope you will enjoy your new engine and equipment. We welcome you to our worldwide family of Briggs & Stratton
engine users.

Best Wishes Always,

The Employees of Briggs & Stratton Corporation

Look For Relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air Index

Information On Your Engine Emissions Label

Engines that are certified to meet the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Tier 2 Emission Standards must display
information regarding the Emissions Durability Period and the Air Index. Briggs & Stratton makes this information available
to the consumer on our emission labels.

The Emissions Durability Period describes the number of hours of actual running time for which the engine is certified to
be emissions compliant, assuming proper maintenance in accordance with the Operating & Maintenance Instructions. The
following categories are used:

Moderate: Engine is certified to be emission compliant for 125 hours of actual engine running time.
Intermediate: Engine is certified to be emission compliant for 250 hours of actual engine running time.
Extended: Engine is certified to be emission compliant for 500 hours of actual engine running time.
For example, a typical walk-behind lawn mower is used 20 to 25 hours per year. Therefore, the Emissions Durability

Period of an engine with an intermediate rating would equate to 10 to 12 years.
The Air Index is a calculated number describing the relative level of emissions for a specific engine family. The lower the

Air Index, the cleaner the engine. This information is displayed in graphical form on the emissions label.

2

BEFORE OPERATING ENGINE

• Read entire Operating & Maintenance Instructions AND
the instructions for the equipment this engine powers.*

• Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury
or death.

THE OPERATING & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
CONTAIN SAFETY INFORMATION TO

• Make you aware of hazards associated with engines

• Inform you of the risk of injury associated with those hazards, and

• Tell you how to avoid or reduce the risk of injury.

274273

The safety alert symbol ( ) is used to identify safety

information about hazards that can result in personal injury.
A signal word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is

used with the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the
potential severity of injury. In addition, a hazard symbol
may be used to represent the type of hazard.

DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not

avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not

avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not

avoided, might result in minor or moderate
injury.

CAUTION, when used without the alert symbol,

indicates a situation that could result in damage
to the engine.

HAZARD SYMBOLS AND MEANINGS

Fire

Explosion

Toxic Fumes

Kickback

Moving Parts

Shock

Hot Surface

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this prod­uct contains chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
harm.

* Briggs & Stratton does not necessarily know what equipment this engine will power. For that reason, you should carefully

read and understand the operating instructions for the equipment on which your engine is placed.

3

SAFETY

WARNING

Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable
and explosive.

Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.

WHEN ADDING FUEL

• Turn engine OFF and let engine cool at least 2
minutes before removing gas cap.

• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.

• Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill tank to approximately

1-1/2 inches below top of neck to allow for fuel
expansion.

• Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames,
pilot lights, heat, and other ignition sources.

• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently
for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.

WHEN STARTING ENGINE

• Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air
cleaner are in place.

• Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting

engine.

• If engine floods, set choke to OPEN/RUN position,
place throttle in FAST and crank until engine starts.

WARNING

Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric
shock.

Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation, or laceration.

BEFORE PERFORMING ADJUSTMENTS OR
REPAIRS

• Disconnect spark plug wire and keep it away from
spark plug.

• Disconnect battery at negative terminal (only
engines with electric start).

WHEN TESTING FOR SPARK

• Use approved spark plug tester.

• Do not check for spark with spark plug removed.

WARNING

WHEN OPERATING EQUIPMENT

• Do not tip engine or equipment at angle which
causes gasoline to spill.

• Do not choke carburetor to stop engine.

WHEN TRANSPORTING EQUIPMENT

• Transport with fuel tank EMPTY or with fuel shut-of f
valve OFF.

WHEN STORING GASOLINE OR EQUIPMENT
WITH FUEL IN TANK

• Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or
other appliances that have pilot light or other
ignition source because they can ignite gasoline
vapors.

Starting engine creates sparking.
Sparking can ignite nearby flammable gases.
Explosion and fire could result.

• If there is natural or LP gas leakage in area, do not
start engine.

• Do not use pressurized starting fluids because
vapors are flammable.

4

SAFETY

WARNING

Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless,
colorless, poison gas.

Breathing carbon monoxide can cause nausea,
fainting or death.

• Start and run engine outdoors.

• Do not start or run engine in enclosed area, even if

doors or windows are open.

WARNING

Running engines produce heat. Engine parts,
especially muffler, become extremely hot.

WARNING

Rotating parts can contact or entangle hands, feet,
hair, clothing, or accessories.

Traumatic amputation or severe laceration can
result.

• Operate equipment with guards in place.

• Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

• Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.

• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, dangling

drawstrings or items that could become caught.

WARNING

Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush,

etc. can catch fire.

• Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool
before touching.

• Remove accumulated combustibles from muffler
area and cylinder area.

• Install and maintain in working order a spark
arrester before using equipment on forest-covered,
grass-covered, brush-covered unimproved land.
The state of California requires this (Section 4442
of the California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal land.

Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull h and
and arm toward engine faster than you can let go.

Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could
result.

• When starting engine, pull cord slowly until
resistance is felt, then pull rapidly.

• Remove all external equipment/engine loads
before starting engine.

• Direct coupled equipment components such as,
but not limited to, blades, impellors, pulleys,
sprockets, etc., must be securely attached.

5

ENGINE PARTS

3

2

1

1. Air cleaner

6

2. Carburetor

3. Rewind starter (if equipped)

4. Blower housing

5. Oil filter (if equipped)

6. Spark plug wire

7. Oil drain plug

8. Oil fill/Dipstick

GENERAL INFORMATION

ENGINE MODEL

This is a twin cylinder, overhead valve (OHV), air-cooled
engine. It is a low emissions engine.

In the state of California, Model Series 290000, 300000 and
350000 engines are certified by the California Air Re­sources Board to meet emissions standards for 250 hours.
Such certification does not grant the purchaser, owner or
operator of this engine any additional warranties with
respect to the performance or operational life of this engine.
This engine is warranted solely according to the product
and emissions warranties stated elsewhere in this manual.

MODEL SERIES 290000 and 300000

Bore 2.68 in. (68 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9

4

5

8

7

14

10

11

12

13

9. Rotating screen

10. Emission label

11. Engine Model Type Code

xxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxx

12. Fuel pump

13. Exhaust manifold

14. 12V electric starter

THE INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS USED

ON THE ENGINE OR

IN THIS MANUAL INCLUDE:

Safety Alert

On Off

Oil

Read Owner’s

Manual

Stop

Stroke 2.60 in. (66 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Displacement 29.3 cu. in. (480 cc). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MODEL SERIES 350000

Bore 2.83 in. (72 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stroke 2.76 in. (70 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Displacement 34.7 cu. in. (570 cc). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Note: For practical operation, the horsepower loading should
not exceed 85% of rated horsepower. Engine power will de­crease 3-1/2% for eac h 1,000 feet (300 meters) above sea
level and 1% for each 10 ° F (5.6° C) above 77° F (25° C).
Engine will operate satisfactorily at an angle up to 15°.

Fuel Shutoff

FuelChoke

TUNE-UP SPECIFICATIONS

Armature air gap 0.008 – 0.012 in. (0.20 – 0.30 mm). . .

Spark plug gap 0.030 in. (0.76 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Valve c learance with valve springs installed and p iston 1/4 in.
(6 mm) past top dead center (check when engine is cold).
See Repair Manual P/N 272144.

Intake 0.004 – 0.006 in. (0.10 – 0.15 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exhaust 0.004 – 0.006 in. (0.10 – 0.15 mm). . . . . . . . . . .

6

274273

OIL

CAUTION: This engine is shipped from Briggs &

Stratton without oil. Check oil level before starting
engine. If you start the engine without oil, the engine
will be damaged beyond repair and will not be
covered under warranty.

OIL CAPACITY

Engine holds approximately 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4
liters) when changing oil and filter.

TYPE OF OIL TO USE

• Use a high quality detergent oil classified “For Service
SF, SG, SH, SJ” or higher, such as Briggs & Stratton
30W, Part Number 100005 (20 oz) or 100028 (48 oz).

• Do not use special additives.

• Choose a viscosity according to the table opposite.

Note: Synthetic oil meeting ILSAC GF-2, API
certification mark and API service symbol
(shown at left) with “SJ/CF ENERGY CON­SERVING” or higher, is an acceptable oil at al l
temperatures. Use of synthetic oil does not

alter required oil change intervals.

CHECKING AND ADDING OIL

• Check oil level before starting the engine.

• Check level daily, or after every eight (8) hours.

SAE Viscosity Grades

**

*

-20 0 20 40 60 80 100

°F

-30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40

°C

STARTING TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

* CAUTION: Air cooled engines run hotter than

automotive engines. The use of non-synthetic
multi-viscosity oils (5W-30, 10W-30, etc.) in
temperatures above 40° F (4° C) will result in higher
than normal oil consumption. When using a
multi-viscosity oil, check oil level more frequently.

** CAUTION: SAE 30 oil, if used below 40°F (4°C), will

result in hard starting and possible engine bore
damage due to inadequate lubrication.

• Keep oil level at FULL.

• Do not overfill.

32

Oil checking procedure: before starting engine, check oil level.

Oil Fill

[1] Place engine lev el. Clean

around oil fill and dipstick.

[2] Remove dipstick and

wipe clean with cloth.

[3] Tighten dipstick down.

Remove & check oil level.

Oil filling procedure: first add 1 quart (32 ounces or 1 liter). Start and run engine at idle for 30 seconds. Shut engine of f and
wait 30 seconds. Then add more oil slowly to bring level to Full mark on dipstick.

FULL

[4] Remove oil fill cap (if

equipped). Pour oil slowly.

[5] Fill to FULL line on

dipstick – recheck.

[6] Replace dipstick firmly.

7

FUEL

TYPE OF FUEL TO USE

• Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with a
minimum of 85 octane. Fresh fuel prevents gum from
forming in the f uel s ystem or on e ssential carburetor parts.
Purchase fuel in quantity that can be used within 30 days.

• Do not use gasoline which contains Methanol.

• Do not mix oil with gasoline.

• For engine protection use Briggs & Stratton Gasoline

Additive available from your Authorized Briggs &
Stratton Dealer (P/N 5041 or single use pouch).

ADDING FUEL

WARNING

[1] Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area,

away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat,
and other ignition sources.

[2] If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting

engine.

[3] Turn engine OFF and let engine cool at least 2

minutes before removing gas cap.

• This engine is certified to operate on gasoline. Exhaust
Emission Control System: EM (Engine Modifications).

CAUTION: Some fuels, called oxygenated or reformu­lated gasoline, are gasoline blended with alcohols or
ethers. Excessive amounts of these blends can damage
the fuel system or cause performance problems. If any
undesirable operating symptoms occur, use gasoline
with a lower percentage of alcohol or ether.

[4] Remove cap. Fill tank to approximately 1-1/2 inches

below top of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be
careful not to overfill.
Briggs & Stratton Smart-fill fuel can fills to the
correct level and automatically shuts off, reducing
spills and emissions.

[5] Replace cap before starting.

STARTING

WARNING

• Do not use pressurized starting fluids.

• Vapors are flammable.

STARTING AND OPERATING TIPS

♦Store and fuel equipment in level position.
♦Use fresh fuel. (See Fuel.)
♦Use correct type of oil for expected starting

temperature. (See Oil.)

♦Remove external equipment/engine loads. (See

equipment operating instructions.)

♦Start lawn mower on hard surface or over previously

cut grass.

OIL PRESSURE SWITCH

If engine is equipped with an oil pressure switch, the switch
will either activate a warning device or stop the engine
when the engine runs low on oil. (Read the operating
instructions supplied by the equipment manufacturer to
determine which way your engine is equipped because the
equipment manufacturer supplies the oil pressure gauge.)

See OIL PRESSURE on page 12 for oil filling instructions.

♦Periodically remove grass buildup under mower

deck. (See Maintenance.)

♦After engine has started, let it warm up several

seconds to several minutes, depending on outside
temperature.

♦For maximum performance and life, operate engine

with choke in RUN and throttle in FAST.

8

REWIND (MANUAL) STARTER

TO START ENGINE

FULL

[1] Check oil level (see p. 7).

STOP RUN

[5] Push rocker switch (if

equipped) to O N o r RUN.

STARTING AND STOPPING

Choke

[2] Open fuel shut-off valve

(if equipped).

[3] Move choke control to

CHOKE or START.

WARNING

[4] Move throt t le (if equipped)

to FAST. Operate engine
with throttle in FAST.

[7] Let engine warm up.

Choke Equipped: Move
choke control lever
toward RUN a short dis­tance at a time over sev­eral seconds in warm
weather or minutes in cold
weather. Let engine run
smoothly before each
change. Operate with
choke in RUN.

TO STOP ENGINE

CAUTION: Do not stop engine by moving choke

control to CHOKE. Backfire, fire or engine damage
could occur.

[1] Move throttle (if

equipped) to SLOW,
then to STOP.

[6] Grasp rope handle. Pull

slowly until resistance is
felt, then pull rapidly to
start engine and avoid
kickback.

STOP RUN

[2] Push rocker switch (if

equipped) to OFF or
STOP.

[3] Close fuel shut-off valve

(if equipped).

9

STARTING AND STOPPING

ELECTRIC (KEY) STARTER (if equipped)

TO START ENGINE

FULL

Choke

[2] Open fuel shut-off valve

(if equipped).

[3] Move choke control to

[1] Check oil level (see p. 7).

STOP RUN

[5] Push rocker switch (if

equipped) to O N o r RUN.

CHOKE or START.

[6] Insert key and turn to

START.

[4] Move throttle to FAST (if

equipped). Operate en­gine with throttle in FAST.

[7] Let engine warm up.

Choke Equipped: Move
choke control lever
toward RUN a short dis­tance at a time over sev­eral seconds in warm
weather or minutes in cold
weather. Let engine run
smoothly before each
change. Operate with
choke in RUN.

TO STOP ENGINE

[1] Move throttle (if

equipped) to SLOW.

CAUTION: To prolong starter life, use short
starting cycles (5 seconds maximum, then wait
one minute). Follow equipment manufacturer’s
recommendations for charging battery.

[2] Turn key to OFF.

Remove key and store
out of reach of children.

STOP RUN

[3] Push rocker switch (if

equipped) to OFF or
STOP.

[4] Close fuel shut-off valve

(if equipped).

10

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

Regular maintenance will improve the performance and
extend the life of the engine. See any Authorized Briggs &
Stratton Dealer for service. Use only genuine Briggs &

Stratton parts. Other parts may not perform as well,
may damage the engine, and may result in injury. In

addition, use of other parts may void your warranty.

Follow the instructions and schedules indicated below.

Task

Perform task at hourly

or calendar interval,

whichever comes first.

Check oil level
Change oil

Change oil filter
(if equipped)

Service air cleaner
pre-cleaner

Service air cleaner
cartridge

Inspect spark arrester
(if equipped)

Clean cooling system

Clean/replace
spark plugs

Clean/replace in-line
fuel filter (if equipped)

Check valve clearance

* Change oil after first 5 to 8 hours of use, then every

50 hours or every season. Change oil every 25 hours
when operating the engine under heavy load or in high
temperatures.

** Clean more often under dusty conditions or when

airborne debris is present. Replace air cleaner parts, if
very dirty.

4

4*

4

4*

*

4*

*

4

4*

*

4

4

4

EMISSION CONTROL

Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission
control devices and systems may be performed by any
nonroad engine repair establishment or individual.

However, to obtain no charge repairs under the terms and
provisions of the Briggs & Stratton warranty statement, any
service or emission control part repair or replacement must
be performed by a factory authorized dealer.

CHANGING OIL

PIPE

Typical

drain plug

WARNING

[3] With engine OFF but still warm remove oil drain

plug and drain oil into appropriate receptacle.
[4] Reinstall drain plug. Remove dipstick.
[5] Fill to FULL mark on dipstick with new oil.

Do not overfill.
Note: Engine holds approximately 1-1/2 quarts

(48 ounces or 1.4 liters) when changing oil and filter.
[6] Replace dipstick.

[1] Place engine level.
[2] Disconnect spark plug

wires and keep away
from spark plugs. Dis­connect battery (if equip­ped with electric starter)
at negative terminal.

OIL DRAIN

PLUG

CAUTION: Used oil is a hazardous waste product.
Dispose of used oil properly. Do not discard with
household waste. Check with your local authorities,
service center, or dealer for safe disposal/recycling
facilities.

11

MAINTENANCE

CHANGING OIL FILTER

Change oil filter after every 100 hours or every season.

OIL FILTER P/N

SEE PAGE 15

[1] Drain engine oil and remove oil filter.
[2] Before installing new filter, lightly oil filter gasket

with fresh, clean oil.

[3] Screw filter on by hand until gasket contacts oil

filter adapter. Tighten 1/2 to 3/4 turn more.
[4] Add fresh oil. Fill to FULL line on dipstick.
[5] Start and run engine at idle to check for leaks.
[6] Stop engine. Re-check oil level. Add oil if required.

AIR CLEANER

All engines have a round air cleaner cartridge. In addition,
some engines have a pre-cleaner.

CLEANING PRE-CLEANERS AND CARTRIDGES

CAUTION: Do not use pressurized air or solvents to

clean cartridge. Pressurized air can damage
cartridge; solvents will dissolve cartridge.

Pre-cleaner

To clean pre-cleaner (if equipped), separate it from
cartridge and wash in liquid detergent and water. Squeeze
dry in a clean cloth. Saturate in engine oil. Squeeze in
clean, absorbent cloth to remove all EXCESS oil.

Cartridge

To clean cartridge, gently tap on a flat surface.

REMOVING AND INSTALLING AIR CLEANER

FOAM

PRE-CLEANER

PART NO. 272490

PRE-CLEANER

and CARTRIDGE

PART NO. 5050

OIL PRESSURE

If oil pressure drops below 1-4 psi (.1-.2 kg/cm2), an oil
pressure switch (if engine is equipped) will either activate a
warning device or stop the engine. Check oil level with
dipstick. If oil level is between ADD and FULL mark on
dipstick, Do not try to restart engine. Contact an Authorized
Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer. Do not operate engine
until oil pressure is corrected.

If oil level is below ADD mark on dipstick, add oil to bring
level to FULL mark. Restart engine and check oil pressure.
If pressure is normal, continue to operate engine.

Note: Oil pressure gauge, if engine is equipped, is supplied
by manufacturer of equipment.

CARTRIDGE

PART NO. 394018

KNOB

COVER

CLIPS

BODY

PLATE

Dual element air cleaner

[1] Unhook clips on both sides of cover and remove cover.
[2] Remove knob and plate. Carefully remove air cleaner

assembly to prevent debris from entering carburetor.

[3] Reassemble clean (or new) pre-cleaner on clean (or

new) cartridge.
[4] Reinstall air cleaner assembly, plate and knob in body.
[5] Replace cover and reattach clips to body.

12

MAINTENANCE

ENGINE AND ENGINE PARTS

We recommend that you see an authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer for all maintenance and service of the engine
and engine parts. Use only genuine Briggs & Stratton parts.

If you perform any maintenance on the engine, first disconnect the spark plug wires

WARNING

WARNING

from the spark plugs, and disconnect the battery at the negative terminal (electric
starter engines only) to prevent unintentional sparking. Unintentional sparking can
result in fire or electric shock. Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation or laceration. Use only correct tools.

• Do not strike the flywheel with a hammer or hard object because the flywheel may
later shatter during operation.

• Do not tamper with governor spring, links or other parts to increase engine speed.

MUFFLER

Replacement parts for the

WARNING

muffler must be the same and
installed in the same position
as the original parts, other­wise fire can occur.

If muff ler is equipped with spark
arrestor screen, remove

screen for inspection. Replace screen if dam aged or plugged.

FUEL SYSTEM

Replacement parts for fuel

WARNING

system (cap, hoses, tanks,
filters, etc.) must be the same
as original parts, otherwise
fire can occur.

FUEL FILTER (IF EQUIPPED)

FILTER

FILTER

AIR COOLING SYSTEM

Debris may clog the engine’s air cooling system. Remove
blower housing and clean area shown to prevent overheat­ing and engine damage.

CLEAN AREAS

OF ALL DIRT
AND DEBRIS

SPARK PLUG

Use only Briggs & Stratton Spark Tester (part number

19368) to check for spark.

PART NO. 493629

(WITH FUEL PUMP)

WARNING

PART NO. 298090 or 5018

(WITHOUT FUEL PUMP)

[1] Disconnect spark plug

wires and keep away
from spark plugs.

[2] Drain fuel tank or close

fuel shut-off valve before
replacing fuel filter.
Otherwise, fuel can leak
out, creating a fire/explo­sion hazard.

Note: In some areas, local
law requires using resistor

.030” (0.76 mm)

WIRE GAGE

spark plug to suppress igni­tion signals. If this engine
was originally equipped with
resistor spark plug, use
same type for replacement.

RESISTOR P/N 491055
RESISTOR P/N 496018

VALVE CLEARANCE

Check valve clearance yearly. (See Tune-up Specifications
on page 6).

13

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING DEBRIS

CAUTION: Do not use water to clean engine parts.

Water could contaminate fuel system. Use a brush
or dry cloth.

Daily or before every use, clean accumulated debris from
engine. Keep linkage, springs and controls clean. Keep
area around and behind muffler free of any combustible
debris.

Engine parts should be kept

WARNING

clean to reduce the risk of
overheating and ignition of a ccu­mulated debris. This is especial­ly important if cutting tall grass.

CLEAN

Linkage, Springs and Controls

ROTATING SCREEN

REWIND

STARTER

GUARD

Finger Guard or Rotating Screen

ADJUSTMENTS

CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING

CLEAN

Muffler and Spark Arrester

TO ADJUST REMOTE CHOKE CONTROL

CHOKE

CLOSED

TO CHOKE

WIRE AND

CASING

SPARK

ARRESTER

PULL

Prevent unintentional starting.
Before performing adjustments:

• Remove spark plug wires from spark plugs.

• Disconnect battery at negative terminal (only

engines with electric start).

CASING CLAMP SCREW

[1] Remove air cleaner.
[2] Move choke control to CHOKE or START position.

(Carburetor chok e should be completely closed.)
[3] If not , loosen casing clam p screw.
[4] Then mov e cas ing, wire and engine chok e lever in

direction shown until choke is complet ely closed.
[5] Tighten casing clam p screw. Replace air cleaner.

14

TO ADJUST REMOTE THROTTLE CONTROL

If the engine does not start or if it runs roughly, the remote
throttle control may need adjustment. See your authorized
Briggs & Stratton dealer or follow the instructions below.

CASING CLAMP SCREW

SWIVEL

ADJUSTMENTS

THROTTLE STOP

EXHAUST MANIFOLD

[1] Remove air cleaner. Move throttle control to FAST.

(Swivel should be against throttle stop.)

[2] If not, loosen casing clamp screw. Move casing

and wire in direction shown by arrow until swivel is
against throttle stop.

[3] Tighten casing clamp screw. Replace air cleaner.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT

WARNING

The manufacturer of the equipment on which this
engine is installed specifies top speed at which the
engine will be operated. DO NOT EXCEED this speed.

Differences in fuel, temperature, altitude or load may
require minor carburetor adjustment. Air cleaner and air
cleaner cover must be assembled to carburetor before
starting engine.

The carburetor on this engine is low emission. It is
equipped with an idle mixture valve with a limiter (see
inset), which allows some adjustment, and an idle speed
adjustment screw. DO NOT remove limiter caps. DO NOT
force beyond limits.

TO ADJUST CARBURETOR

CARBURETOR THROTTLE LEVER

IDLE

SPEED

SCREW

GOVERNED IDLE SPRING

(RED OR WHITE)

EXHAUST

MANIFOLD

Governed idle spring

[1 ] Readjust the idle speed to 1200 rpm, if governed idle

spring is red, or 900 rpm, if governed idle spring is white.

[2] Release carburetor throttle lever. Move throttle

control to FAST position. Engine should accelerate
smoothly. If it does not, readjust idle mixture valves
slightly counterclockwise.

Note: Engines operated at about 3000 to 5000 feet (900 to
1500 meters) above sea level may require a high altitude
carburetor main jet. If erratic performance is observed,
contact a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Service Dealer for
cost to install/purchase a high altitude carburetor main jet.

Fill in both sides of this order form carefully

----------------------

MO 4.225%, NY 8.5%, OH 5%, TN 6%, TX 6.25%, WA 6.5%, WI 5%

**AL 5%, CT 6%, FL 6.5%, GA 4%, KY 6%, MI 6%, MN 6%,

Add sales tax if you live in any of the following states:

LIMITER

IDLE

MIXTURE

VALVE

CAP

[1] Start engine and warm up approximately 5 minutes

before adjusting. With engine running, place throttle
control in SLOW position.

[2] Rotate carburetor throttle lever against the idle

speed screw and hold it.
[3] Turn idle speed screw to obtain 1300 to 1500 rpm.
[4] While still holding carburetor throttle lever against

idle speed screw, turn idle mixture valve with limiter

cap screw midway between limits.

15

$2.00

$1.50

------------

------------

CREDIT CARD NUMBER

To purchase a complete list of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts for your engine, fill in

both sides of this order form carefully. We cannot fill your order without the correct

Engine Model/Type/Code. Allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery.

Briggs & Stratton Corporationin the amount of $_______ (U.S. Dollars, please)

Payment Method:

j Check or money order enclosed payable to

j Please charge my j MasterCard j VISA

SIGNATURE (REQUIRED FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS) EXPIRATION DATE

---------------------------------------

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Parts List

Shipping & Handling

**Add State Sales Tax

Total

SERVICE & STORAGE

PARTIAL LIST OF GENUINE BRIGGS & STRATTON PARTS

Part Briggs & Stratton Part No.

Air cleaner cartridge 394018
Air cleaner pre-cleaner 272490
Air cleaner pre-cleaner and cartridge 5050
Oil 100005 or 100028
Oil filter (3-1/2 in. long) 491056
Oil filter (2-1/4 in. long) 492932 or 5049
Fuel filter (with fuel pump) 493629
Fuel filter (without fuel pump) 298090 or 5018
Gas additive 5041
Resistor spark plug (Champion RC12YC) 491055
Resistor spark plug (Champion RC14YC) 496018
Long life platinum spark plug 5066

(used on most OHV engines)
Spark plug wrench 19374
Spark tester 19368
Oil pump kit 5056

(uses standard electric drill to remove oil f rom engine quickly)

Code

Type

SERVICE

See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer. Each
one carries a stock of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts and
is equipped with special service tools. Trained mechanics
assure expert repair service on all Briggs & Stratton
engines. Only dealers advertising as “Authorized Briggs &
Stratton” are required to meet Briggs & Stratton standards.

When you purc hase equipment powered by a
Briggs & Stratton engine, you are assured of
highly skilled, reliable service at more than
30,000 Authorized Service Dealers
worldwide, including more than 3,500 Master
Service Technicians. Look for these signs
wherever Briggs & Stratton service is offered.

You may locate your nearest Authorized Briggs & Stratton
Service Dealer in our dealer locator map on our web site

www.briggsandstratton.com or in the “Yellow Pages”

directory under “Engines, Gasoline” or “Gasoline

Engines,” or “Lawn Mowers” or similar category.
An illustrated shop manual includes com­mon specifications and detailed informa­tion covering adjustment, tune-up and
repair of Briggs & Stratton OHV, twin
cylinder, 4 c y c l e e n g i n e s . I t i s a v a i l a b l e f o r
purchase from an Authorized Briggs &
Stratton Service Dealer or you can order it
from the factory. Write: Briggs & Stratton
Corporation, Attn: Service Division
P. O. Box 1144, Milwaukee, WI 53201

STORAGE

Engines stored over 30 days need special attention.
[1] To prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on

essential carburetor parts:
a) if fuel tank contains oxygenated or reformulated
gasoline (gasoline blended with an alcohol or an
ether), run engine until it stops from lack of fuel, or b) if
fuel tank contains gasoline, either run engine until it
stops from lack of fuel, or add a gasoline additive to the
gas in the tank. (See parts list. Single – use pouches of
gas additive are available from your service dealer.) If
you use a gas additive, run the engine for several
minutes to circulate the additive through the carburetor.

Then, engine and fuel can be stored up to 24 months.
[2] While engine is still warm, change oil.
[3] Remove spark plugs and pour about 1 oz. (30 ml) of

engine oil into each cylinder. Replace spark plugs and

crank slowly to distribute oil.
[4] Clean engine of surface debris, chaff or grass.

Part No. 272144

Model

Briggs & Stratton Corporation

Fill in both sides, clip and return to:

Milwaukee, WI 53201–1144 U.S.A.

P.O. Box 1144

Name

Address

Your Engine

City State Zip Country

[5] Store in a clean, dry area. Do

To purchase a complete list of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts for your engine, fill in

both sides of this order form carefully. We cannot fill your order without the correct

Engine Model/Type/Code. Allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery.

16

WARNING

not store in same area as a
stove, furnace, water heater, or
other appliance that uses a pilot
light or has a device that can
create a spark.

Briggs & Stratton Corporation (B&S), the California Air Resources Board (CARB)

Emission Control System Warranty Statement (Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations)

EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY COVERAGE IS APPLICABLE
TO CERTIFIED ENGINES PURCHASED IN CALIFORNIA IN 1995
AND THEREAFTER, WHICH ARE USED IN CALIFORNIA, AND

The California Air Resources Board (CARB), U.S. EPA and B&S are
pleased to explain the Emission Control System Warranty on your
model year 2000 and l ater small o f f-road e ngine ( SORE). I n C alifornia,
new small off-road engines must be designed, built and equipped to
meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. Elsewhere in the
United States, new non-road, spark-ignition engines certified for model
year 1997 and later, must meet similar standards set forth by the U.S.
EPA. B&S must warrant t he e mission c ontrol s ystem o n y our e ngine f or

Small off-road engines are warranted relative to emission control
parts defects for a period of two years, subject to provisions set forth

As the small off-road engine owner, you are responsible for the per­formance of the required maintenance listed in your Operating and
Maintenance Instructions. B&S recommends that you retain all your
receipts covering maintenance on your small off-road engine, but
B&S cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for your
failure to ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance.

As the small off-road engine owner, you should however be aware
that B&S may deny you warranty coverage if your small off-road en­gine or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper mainte­nance or unapproved modifications.

The following are specific provisions relative to your Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage. It is in addition to the B&S engine warranty
for non-regulated engines found in the Operating and Maintenance Instructions.

1. Warranted Parts
Coverage under this warranty extends only to the parts listed be-

low (the emission control systems parts) to the extent these
parts were present on the engine purchased.

a. Fuel Metering System

• Cold start enrichment system

• Carburetor and internal parts

• Fuel Pump

b. Air Induction System

• Air cleaner

• Intake manifold

c. Ignition System

• Spark plug(s)

• Magneto ignition system

d. Catalyst System

• Catalytic converter

• Exhaust manifold

• Air injection system or pulse valve

e. Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems

• V acuum, temperature, position, time sensitive valves
and switches

• Connectors and assemblies

2. Length of Coverage
B&S warrants to t he i nitial o wner a nd e ach s ubsequent p urchaser

that the Warranted Parts shall be free from defects in materials
and workmanship which caused the failure of the Warranted
Parts for a period of two years from the date the engine is deliv­ered to a retail purchaser.

and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)

TO CERTIFIED MODEL YEAR 1997 AND LATER ENGINES
WHICH ARE PURCHASED AND USED ELSEWHERE IN THE
UNITED STATES.

California and United States Emission Control Defects Warranty Statement

the periods of t ime l isted below, provided there has b een n o a buse, n e­glect or improper maintenance of your small off-road engine.

Y our emission control system includes parts such as the carburetor,
air cleaner, ignition system, muf fler and catalytic converter. Also in­cluded may be connectors and other emission related assemblies.

Where a warrantable condition exists, B&S will repair your small off­road engine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and labor.

Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage

below. I f any covered part on your engine is defective, the part will be
repaired or replaced by B&S.

Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities

You are responsible for presenting your small off-road engine to an
Authorized B&S Service Dealer as soon as a problem exists. The
undisputed warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable
amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.

If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and re­sponsibilities, you should contact a B&S Service Representative at
1-414-259-5262.

The emission warranty is a defects warranty. Defects are judged on
normal engine performance. The warranty is not related to an in-use
emission test.

Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Provisions

3. No Charge
Repair or replacement of any Warranted Part will be performed

at no charge to the owner, including diagnostic labor which leads
to the determination that a Warranted Part is defective, if the
diagnostic work is performed at an Authorized B&S Service
Dealer. For emissions warranty service contact your nearest Au­thorized B&S Service Dealer as listed in the “Yellow Pages” un­der “Engines, Gasoline,” “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mowers,”
or similar category.

4. Claims and Coverage Exclusions
Warranty claims shall be filed in accordance with the provisions

of the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. Warranty coverage shall be
excluded for failures of Warranted Parts which are not original
B&S parts or because of abuse, neglect or improper mainte­nance as set forth in the B&S Engine W arranty Policy. B&S is not
liable to cover failures of Warranted Parts caused by the use of
add-on, non-original, or modified parts.

5. Maintenance
Any W arranted P art w hich i s not s cheduled for r eplacement a s r e-

quired maintenance o r w hich i s s cheduled o nly f or r egular i nspec­tion to the effect of “repair o r r eplace a s necessary” shall be w ar­ranted as to defects for the warranty pe riod. A ny Warranted Part
which is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance
shall be warranted as to defects only for the period of time up to
the first scheduled replacement for that part. Any replacement
part that is e quivalent i n p erformance a nd d urability may b e u sed
in the performance of any maintenance or repairs. The owner is
responsible for the performance of all required maintenance, as
defined in the B&S Operating and Maintenance Instructions.

6. Consequential Coverage
Coverage hereunder shall extend to the failure of any engine

components caused by the failure of any Warranted Part still un­der warranty.

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.

17

About your engine warranty: (see next page for statement of LIMITED WARRANTY).
Briggs & Stratton welcomes warranty repair and apologizes

to you for being inconvenienced. Any Authorized Service
Dealer may perform warranty repairs. Most warranty repairs
are handled routinely, but sometimes requests for warranty
service may not be appropriate. For example, warranty would
not apply if engine damage occurred because of misuse, lack
of routine maintenance, shipping, handling, warehousing or
improper installation. Similarly, warranty is void if the serial
number of the engine has been removed or the engine has
been altered or modified.

If a customer differs with t he decision of the S ervice Dealer, an
investigation will be made to determine whether the warranty
applies. A sk t he S ervice D ealer t o s ubmit a ll s upporting f acts t o
his Distributor o r t he F actory f or review. If t he Distributor or the
Factory decides that t he c laim i s j ustified, t he c ustomer w ill b e
fully reimbursed for those items that are defective. To avoid
misunderstanding which might occur between the customer
and the Dealer, listed below are s ome of the causes of e ngine
failure that the warranty does not cover.

Normal wear:

Engines, like all mechanical devices, need periodic parts ser­vice and replacement to perform well. Warranty will not cover
repair when normal use has exhausted the life of a part or an
engine.

Improper maintenance:

The life of an engine depends upon the conditions under
which it operates, and the care it receives. Some applications,
such as tillers, pumps and rotary mowers, are very often used
in dusty or dirty conditions, which can cause what appears to
be premature wear. Such wear, when caused by dirt, dust,
spark plug cleaning grit, or other abrasive material that has
entered the engine because of improper maintenance, is not
covered by warranty.

This warranty covers engine related defective material
and/or workmanship only

, and not replacement or refund
of the equipment to which the engine may be mounted.
Nor does the warranty extend to repairs required be­cause of:

1. PROBLEMS CAUSED BY PARTS THAT ARE NOT

ORIGINAL BRIGGS & STRATTON PARTS.

2. Equipment controls or installations that prevent starting,

cause unsatisfactory engine performance, or shorten en­gine life. (Contact equipment manufacturer.)

3. Leaking carburetors, clogged fuel pipes, sticking valves,

or other damage, caused by using contaminated or stale
fuel. (Use clean, fresh, lead-free gasoline and Briggs &
Stratton gasoline stabilizer, Part No. 5041.)

4. Parts which are scored or broken because an engine was
operated with insufficient or contaminated lubricating oil,
or an incorrect grade of lubricating oil (check oil level daily
or after every 8 hours of operation. Refill when necessary
and change at recommended intervals.) OIL GARD
may not shut down running engine. Engine damage may
occur if oil level is not properly maintained. Read Operat­ing & Maintenance Instructions.

5. Repair or adjustment of associated parts or assemblies
such as clutches, transmissions, remote controls, etc.,
which are not manufactured by Briggs & Stratton.

6. Damage or wear to parts caused by dirt, which entered
the engine because of improper air cleaner maintenance,
re-assembly, or use of a non-original air cleaner element
or cartridge. (At recommended intervals, clean and re-oil
the Oil-Foam

element or the foam pre-cleaner, and re-

place the cartridge.) Read Operating & Maintenance
Instructions.

7. Parts damaged by overspeeding, or overheating caused
by grass, debris, or dirt, which plugs or clogs the cooling
fins, or flywheel area, or damage caused by operating the
engine in a confined area without sufficient ventilation.
(Clean fins on the cylinder, cylinder head and flywheel at
recommended intervals.) Read Operating & Maintenance
Instructions.

8. Engine or equipment parts broken by excessive vibration
caused by a loose engine mounting, loose cutter blades,
unbalanced blades or loose or unbalanced impellers, im­proper attachment of equipment to engine crankshaft,
overspeeding or other abuse in operation.

9. A bent or broken crankshaft, caused by striking a solid ob­ject with the cutter blade of a rotary lawn mower, or exces­sive v-belt tightness.

10.Routine tune-up or adjustment of the engine.

Warranty is available only through service dealers which
have been authorized by Briggs & Stratton Corporation.
Your nearest Authorized Service Dealer is listed in the
“Yellow Pages” of your telephone directory under “En-
gines, Gasoline” or “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mow­ers,” or similar category.

Briggs & Stratton Engines Are Made Under One Or More Of The Following Patents: Design D-247,177 (Other Patents Pending)
5,852,951
5,823,153
5,819,513
5,765,713
5,645,025
5,642,701
5,606,948

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.

5,548,955
5,546,901
5,503,125
5,501,203
5,497,679
5,320,795
5,271,363

5,269,713
5,265,700
5,243,878
5,235,943
5,197,425
5,197,422
5,191,864

5,188,069
5,186,142
5,138,996
5,105,331
5,086,890
5,070,829
5,058,544

5,040,644
5,040,503
5,009,208
4,996,956
4,995,357
4,977,879
4,971,219

4,895,119
4,875,448
4,819,593
4,719,682
4,694,792
4,684,917
4,633,556

4,630,498
4,522,080
4,520,288
4,453,507
4,430,984
4,355,253

DES. 309,458
DES. 309,457
DES. 308,872
DES. 308,871

18

BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE OWNER WARRANTY POLICY

effective July 1, 1999

Replaces all undated Warranties and all Warranties

dated before July 1, 1999

LIMITED WARRANTY

“Briggs & Stratton Corporation will repair or replace, free of charge, any part, or parts of the engine that are defective in
material or workmanship or both. Transportation charges on parts submitted for repair or replacement under this Warranty
must be borne by purchaser. This warranty is ef fective for the time periods and subject to the conditions provided for in this
policy. For warranty service contact your nearest Authorized Service Dealer as listed in the ‘Yellow Pages’ under ‘Engines,
Gasoline,’ ‘Gasoline Engines,’ ‘Lawn Mowers’ or similar category. THERE IS NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY. IM­PLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
ARE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR FROM PURCHASE, OR TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ANY AND ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUDED. LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES UNDER ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES
ARE EXCLUDED TO THE EXTENT EXCLUSION IS PERMITTED BY LAW. Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, and some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential dam­ages, so the above limitation and exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.”

Briggs & Stratton Corporation

F. P. Stratton, Jr.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

WARRANTY PERIOD

WITHIN U.S.A. AND CANADA OUTSIDE U.S.A. AND CANADA

ENGINES

CONSUMER

USE*
All Vanguard engines.
All Diamond Plus, Industrial Plus, I/C

engines and sleeve bore Intek series.

2 year 1 year

Quantum and Diamond Power. 2 year 90 days

COMMERCIAL

USE*

2 year – engine 

CONSUMER

USE*

2 year 

2 year  

COMMERCIAL

USE*

1 year

90 days

All standard engines and Kool Bore Intek series
installed on lawn mowers, riders, edgers,
chippers, shredders, tillers, and all Sno/Gard

2 year 90 days 1 year 90 days
engines.
All other standard engines and Classic series. 1 year 90 days 1 year 90 days

* For purposes o f t his w arranty p olicy, “consumer use” m eans p ersonal r esidential h ousehold u se b y t he o riginal r etail consumer.

“Commercial use” means all o ther uses, i ncluding u se f or c ommercial, i ncome p roducing o r rental p urposes. O nce a n e ngine
has experienced commercial use, it shall t hereafter b e c onsidered a s a c ommercial u se e ngine f or p urposes o f t his w arranty.

Engines used in competitive racing or on commercial or rental tracks are not warrantied.

 One (1) year in Australia, New Zealand, Middle East and Africa.

 One (1) year in India.

NO WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD IS NECESSARY TO OBTAIN WARRANTY ON BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES.

YOU MUST SAVE THE PURCHASE RECEIPT. A PROOF OF PURCHASE DATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN WARRANTY.

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.

19