FORM NO.

276171--02/05
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
© Copyright 2004 by Briggs & Stratton Corporation

Operating & Maintenance

Instructions
The Power That Works For You.™

Quick Start Guide

on page 4

Model Series covered in this manual 120000.

www.briggsandstratton.com
Safety References
The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety SYMBOLS ASSOCIATED
information about hazards that can result in personal WITH THIS ENGINE:
injury. A signal word (DANGER, WARNING, or
CAUTION) is used with the alert symbol to indicate the Read
likelihood and the potential severity of injury. In addition, Fire Operating
a hazard symbol may be used to represent the type of Manual
hazard.
Explosion Oil
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.
Kickback Fuel
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious
injury. Hot Surface Fuel Shutoff

CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not

avoided, might result in minor or moderate Toxic Fumes On Off
injury.
CAUTION, when used without the alert
symbol, indicates a situation that could result
Moving Parts Run
in damage to the engine.

This manual contains safety

information to make you aware of
the hazards and risks associated with engines. Shock Choke
Because Briggs & Stratton does not necessarily
know what equipment this engine will power, it is
important that you read the instructions and the
instructions for the equipment this engine powers. Hazardous
Stop
Chemical

Table of Contents
Slow Fast
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Engine Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
QuickStart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 WARNING
Starting & READYSTARTt . . . . . . . . . 7 Briggs & Stratton does not approve or authorize
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 the use of these engines on 3-wheel All Terrain
Vehicles (ATVs), motor bikes, fun/recreational
Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 go--karts, aircraft products or vehicles intended for
Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 use in competitive events. Use of these engines in
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 such applications could result in property damage,
serious injury (including paralysis), or even death.
Fresh Start Fuel Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Engine Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 WARNING
Storage & Parts and Service . . . . . . 17 The engine exhaust from this product contains
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

CAUTION
This engine is shipped from Briggs & Stratton
without oil. If you start the engine without oil, the
engine will be damaged beyond repair and will
not be covered under warranty.
Know Your Engine
Rewind/Starter
handle
Fuel fill
Oil cap &
Oil dipstick

Choke
(if equipped)

Primer

Muffler

Spark plug

Front view

Speed
control lever

Air cleaner
Side oil drain plug
(if equipped)

Back view

3
 This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks
associated with engines. Read the Operating Manual before starting your engine.

1 2 3 4

ADD OIL
WHAT KIND ?
High quality 30 motor oil.

HOW MUCH ?
To FULL line on dipstick.
Engine holds about 20 oz. (0.61l).

HOW ?
Unscrew and remove oil cap.
Pour in oil. Replace cap.
FULL

SPECIAL CONCERNS ?
WIPE DIPSTICK.
Do not overfill.
REPLACE DIPSTICK
Do not tip engine. AND TIGHTEN CAP.
REMOVE DIPSTICK
TO READ LEVEL.
See page 9 for details.

1 2 3 4

ADD GAS
WHAT KIND ?
Unleaded, 85 octane or higher.

HOW MUCH ?
Fill to one inch below top of fuel fill neck.

HOW ?
Remove gas cap. Pour in gas. Replace cap.
WARNING
SPECIAL CONCERNS ? Starting engine creates sparking.
Fuel equipment outdoors. If fuel spills, wait Gasoline and its vapors are
until it evaporates before starting engine. extremely flammable and
explosive. Fire or explosion can
cause severe burns or death.
See page 10 for details. If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates
before starting engine.
DO NOT use pressurized starting
fluids.

4
 If Readystart™ go to step 4.

1 2 3 4

PUSH PRIMER
HOW MANY TIMES?
Press 5 times the FIRST TIME you start engine.
For all future starts, press 3 times.

HOW ?
Locate primer bulb. Press with finger. Wait two
seconds between each press.

SPECIAL CONCERNS ?
Pressing primer too many times can flood
engine with gas. A flooded engine will not start.
See Troubleshooting section.

1 2 3 4

PULL STARTER HANDLE

HOW ?
Stand behind equipment.
Close bail, or operator control bar, on
equipment with this feature. If you do not keep
bail held against equipment handle, engine will
not start.
Slowly pull cord until you feel resistance, then
pull quickly.

SPECIAL CONCERNS ?
If speed control equipped, start in FAST position. WARNING
Also, see warning at right.
Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and arm
If electric start equipped see page 7. toward engine faster than you can let
go. To avoid kickback, slowly pull the
cord until you feel resistance, then
pull rapidly.
Broken bones, fractures, bruises
To Stop Engine -- or sprains could result.
Let go of brake release bar, which activates
Rotating parts can contact or
brake and stops engine from running. entangle hands, feet, hair,
clothing, or accessories.
For complete starting instructions
see page 7. Traumatic amputation or severe
laceration can result.

Need assistance? 1--800--233--3723

(USA and Canada ONLY, Pre--recorded message.)
www.briggsandstratton.com

5
Troubleshooting
Starter Handle will not pull.
♦ The proper equipment handle is not
engaged which releases the brake from WARNING
the flywheel allowing the engine to turn
over.
♦ Place equipment on flat level surface.
• Ensure all external equipment/engine loads are removed
before starting engine. Direct coupled equipment
components must be securely attached such as, but not
limited to, blades, impellors, pulleys, sprockets, etc.

Engine will not start. CAUTION

♦ Oil Level is OVER FULL
DO NOT OVERFILL.
mark on dipstick. Overfilling may cause
• Drain excess oil from engine to bring level to smoking, hard starting, spark
FULL mark on dipstick. plug fouling or oil saturation of
• Check air cleaner filter for oil saturation. air filter.
If saturated, clean or replace filter.

♦ Out of Fuel
WARNING
• Add gasoline.
• Prime engine. • Ensure fuel cap, and air
cleaner are in place
before starting engine.
♦ Engine Flooded • Before refueling -- turn
• Set choke (if equipped) to OPEN/RUN engine OFF and let
position, place throttle (if equipped) in FAST engine cool at least 2
and continue to pull starter handle. minutes before
removing gas cap.
• Check fuel lines, tank,
♦ Spark Plug Fouling cap, and fittings for
• Remove spark plug. Clean, check gap, cracks or leaks. Replace
replace. See Maintenance section. if necessary.
• Do not crank engine with
spark plug removed.

Engine is Smoking or Running Rough. CAUTION

♦ Engine may have been If engine is tipped to transport
tipped during transport. equipment, to remove debris,
to drain oil, etc., keep the
• Check for fouled spark plug. spark plug side of engine up.
• Check air cleaner filter for oil saturation.
If saturated, clean or replace filter. KEEP SPARK PLUG UP

6
Readystartt Instructions
[1] Check oil level. Ensure level is at FULL mark on
dipstick. Use a high quality motor oil. Check the oil
recommendations for the correct oil type for
WARNING
expected starting temperature. • Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap
and air cleaner are in place.
• Do not crank engine with spark plug
removed.
• DO NOT start engine if there is a
natural or LP gas leak in area.
• If there is natural or LP gas leakage in
area, do not start engine.
• Do not use pressurized starting fluids
because vapors are flammable.

WARNING
• Start and run engine outdoors.
• Do not start or run engine in
enclosed area, even if doors or
windows are open.
[2] Move speed control to FAST, if equipped. Operate
engine in FAST position.

[3] Close safety brake handle on equipment with this

feature.

WARNING
[4] Start your engine. See options below:
Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and arm
Rewind Start toward engine faster than you can
let go. To avoid kickback, slowly
• Grasp rope handle. Pull slowly until resistance is pull the cord until you feel
felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and avoid resistance, then pull rapidly.
kickback.
Broken bones, fractures, bruises
or sprains could result.
WARNING Rotating parts can contact or
entangle hands, feet, hair,
clothing, or accessories.
Traumatic amputation or severe
laceration can result.

Electric Start
CAUTION
• Insert key and turn to START. To prolong starter life use short starting cycles
(5 seconds maximum, then wait one minute).
• Allow engine to warm up. Follow equipment manufacturer’s
recommendations for charging battery.
Go to Operating Engine next page.

7
Starting Instructions
[1] Check oil level. Ensure level is at FULL mark on
dipstick. Use a high quality motor oil. Check the oil
recommendations for the correct oil type for
WARNING
expected starting temperature. • Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap
and air cleaner are in place.
• Do not crank engine with spark plug
removed.
• DO NOT start engine if there is a
natural or LP gas leak in area.
• If there is natural or LP gas leakage in
area, do not start engine.
• Do not use pressurized starting fluids
because vapors are flammable.

[2] Open fuel shut--off valve1/4 turn,

if equipped.
WARNING
[3] Firmly push primer bulb 3 times, if equipped. • Start and run engine outdoors.
• Do not start or run engine in
enclosed area, even if doors or
windows are open.

[4] Move speed control to FAST,

if equipped. Operate engine in
FAST position.

WARNING
[5] Close bail, or operator control
bar, on equipment with this Rapid retraction of starter cord
feature. (kickback) will pull hand and arm
toward engine faster than you can
let go. To avoid kickback, slowly
pull the cord until you feel
[6] Start your engine. See options below: resistance, then pull rapidly.

Rewind Start Broken bones, fractures, bruises

or sprains could result.
• Grasp rope handle. Pull slowly until resistance is
felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and avoid Rotating parts can contact or
kickback. entangle hands, feet, hair,
clothing, or accessories.
WARNING Traumatic amputation or severe
laceration can result.

CAUTION
To prolong starter life use short starting cycles
Electric Start (5 seconds maximum, then wait one minute).
Follow equipment manufacturer’s
• Insert key and turn to START. recommendations for charging battery.
• Allow engine to warm up.

8
Operating Engine
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
WARNING
speed control in FAST, if equipped. Running engines produce heat.
Engine parts, especially muffler,
• Do not tip engine or
equipment at angle become extremely hot.
which causes gasoline Severe thermal burns can occur on
to spill. contact.
Periodically remove grass buildup under mower deck. Combustible debris, such as
See Maintenance section. leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch
fire.

• Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool

WARNING before touching.
• Remove accumulated combustibles from
Engines give off carbon monoxide, muffler area and cylinder area.
an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
• Install and maintain in working order a spark
Breathing carbon monoxide can arrester before using equipment on
cause nausea, fainting or death. 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.

WARNING
• 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.

Stopping Engine
Depending on how your engine is equipped follow the
CAUTION
steps below:
Do not stop engine by moving choke control to
[1] Move speed control to SLOW then to STOP, then CHOKE (if equipped). Backfire, fire or engine
release bail -- OR --
damage could occur.
[2] Push stop switch to OFF -- OR --

[3] Turn key to OFF. Remove key and store out of reach
of children.
[4] Close fuel shut--off valve.

9
Oil
Capacity Recommendation
The engine holds approximately 5/8 qt (20 oz.; 0.6 liter). Viscosity Grades
• Use a high quality 30 weight motor oil.
• 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
°F -20 0 20 32 40 60 80 100
higher, is an acceptable oil at all °C -30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
temperatures. Use of synthetic oil STARTING TEMPERATURE RANGE BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
does not alter required oil change
intervals. 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.
** 30 weight oil, if used below 40° F (4° C), will result in
hard starting and possible engine bore damage due to
inadequate lubrication.

Checking Oil Level • Check oil level before starting the engine.
• Check level daily, or after every eight (8) hours.
• Keep oil level at FULL.

[1] Place engine level

and clean around oil
fill area.
[2] Remove dipstick and
wipe clean with cloth.

[3] Replace and tighten

dipstick. Remove and
check oil level. Oil level
should be at FULL line
on dipstick.
[4] If needed, add oil slowly -
recheck. Do not over fill.

[5] Wipe dipstick clean,

replace and tighten.
Remove and check oil
level. Oil level should be
at FULL line on dipstick.

CAUTION
Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause the
engine to not start, or hard starting. If over the
FULL mark on dipstick, drain oil to reduce oil
level to FULL mark on dipstick.

10
Changing Oil
Change oil after first 5 to 8 hours of use, then every 50 CAUTION
hours or every season. Change oil every 25 hours when
operating the engine under heavy load or in high Used oil is a hazardous waste product. Dispose
temperatures. of used oil properly. Do not discard with
[1] Run engine until it runs out of fuel. Otherwise, fuel household waste. Check with your local
can leak out, creating a fire/explosion hazard, authorities, service center, or dealer for safe
when you tip engine in Step 4. disposal/recycling facilities.
[2] Disconnect spark plug wire and keep it away
from spark plug.
[3] With engine OFF but still warm remove dipstick.
[4] Top oil drain, keep spark plug side up. Bottom or
WARNING
side oil drain (if equipped), keep engine level.
Drain oil into appropriate receptacle. On bottom oil drain, DO NOT rotate blade or
Note: Top oil drain is recommended method, any other parts unless spark plug wire is
however oil can drain from side (if equipped) or disconnected from spark plug.
bottom as shown.
[5] Place engine level. Add about 5/8 quart (20
ounces: 0.6 liter) new oil. Fill to FULL line on
DRAIN
dipstick. Do not overfill. Replace dipstick. PIPE
3/8”
PLUGS SQUARE
[6] Replace spark plug wire before starting.

SPARK PLUG
CUTTING
BLADE OIL DRAIN
PLUG

RATCHET
AND
EXTENSION

Bottom Oil Drain Top Oil Drain Side Oil Drain High Oil Fill Low Oil Fill
(if equipped) (if equipped) (if equipped)

Fuel
Type to Use CAUTION
• Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with a
Some fuels, called oxygenated or reformulated
minimum of 85 octane. Fresh fuel prevents gum from
gasoline, are gasoline blended with alcohols or
forming in the fuel system or on essential carburetor
ethers. Excessive amounts of these blends can
parts. Purchase fuel in quantity that can be used
damage the fuel system or cause performance
within 30 days.
problems. If any undesirable operating
• Do not use gasoline which contains Methanol. symptoms occur, use gasoline with a lower
• Do not mix oil with gasoline. percentage of alcohol or ether.
• For engine protection use Briggs & Stratton
Gasoline Additive available from your Authorized
Briggs & Stratton Dealer.
• This engine is certified to operate on gasoline.
Exhaust Emission Control System: EM (Engine
Modifications).

11
 Adding Fuel
[1] Remove cap. Fill tank to approximately one inch
below top of neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be
careful not to overfill.
WARNING
• Turn engine OFF and let engine
[2] Replace cap before starting. cool at least 2 minutes before
removing gas cap.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in
Fuel Fill well-ventilated area.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill tank to
approximately 1 inches below top of
neck to allow for fuel expansion.
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates
before starting engine.
• 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.

FreshStart™ fuel cap

Your engine may be equipped with
a FreshStart fuel cap.
DANGER
Contents are HARMFUL OR FATAL IF
SWALLOWED. Avoid contact to eyes,
skin, or clothing. Do not take internally.
Avoid breathing the mist or vapor.
Overexposure to eyes or skin can
cause irritation. KEEP STABILIZER
OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
Fuel stabilizer is a hazardous
Cartridge with tab
chemical.**
partially removed.
• IF SWALLOWED, call physician immediately. Do
not induce vomiting. If inhaled, remove to fresh
air. In case of eye or skin contact, flush with water
FreshStart fuel cap is designed to for 15 minutes.
hold a cartridge which contains fuel stabilizer.
• Store unopened cartridges in a cool, dry,
[1] Place silver foil seal side of cartridge into fuel cap. well-ventilated area. Keep open cartridge in fuel
cap, and fuel cap closed on fuel tank when not in
[2] Push to “snap” cartridge into place. use.
[3] Remove the white tab to expose membrane. ** Fuel stabilizer contains: 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol
(128-39-2) and aliphatic petroleum distillate (64742-47-8).
[4] Reinstall fuel cap on engine fuel tank.
• In case of emergency, contact a physician
[5] Check periodically -- if empty, remove and replace. immediately and call 1- 800- 424- 9300 for
material safety information.

12
Engine Specifications
This is a single cylinder, L-head, air-cooled engine. It is Technical Information
a low emissions engine.
In the state of California, the 120000 series engine Power Ratings: The power ratings for an individual
engine model are initially developed by starting with
covered in this manual is certified by the California Air SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) code J1940
Resources Board to meet emissions standards for 125 (Small Engine Power & Torque Rating Procedure)
hours. Such certification does not grant the purchaser, (Revision 2002-05). Given both the wide array of
owner or operator of this engine any additional products on which our engines are placed, and the
variety of environmental issues applicable to operating
warranties with respect to the performance or the equipment, it may be that the engine you have
operational life of this engine. This engine is warranted purchased will not develop the rated horsepower when
solely according to the product and emissions used in a piece of power equipment (actual “on-site”
warranties stated elsewhere in this manual. power). This difference is due to a variety of factors
including, but not limited to, the following: differences in
Model Series 120000 altitude, temperature, barometric pressure, humidity,
fuel, engine lubrication, maximum governed engine
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11/16 in. (68.26 mm) speed, individual engine to engine variability, design of
the particular piece of power equipment, the manner in
which the engine is operated, engine run-in to reduce
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3/64 in. (51.99mm) friction and clean out of combustion chambers,
adjustments to the valves and carburetor, and other
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.57 cu. in. (189.6cc) factors. The power ratings may also be adjusted based
on comparisons to other similar engines utilized in
Tune up Specifications similar applications, and will therefore not necessarily
match the values derived using the foregoing codes.
Armature air gap . . 0.006 -- 0.010 in. (0.15 -- 0.25 mm)

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

Emission Information
Valve clearance with valve springs installed and piston 1/4
Engines that are certified to meet the California Air
in. (6 mm) past top dead center (check when engine is Resources Board (CARB) Tier 2 Emission Standards
cold). See Repair Manual P/N 270962. must display information regarding the Emissions
Durability Period and the Air Index. Briggs & Stratton
Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.005 -- 0.007 in. (0.13 -- 0.18 mm) makes this information available to the consumer on our
emission labels. The engine emission label will indicate
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . 0.007 -- 0.009 in. (0.18 -- 0.23 mm) certification information.
The Emissions Durability Period describes the number
Note: For practical operation, the horsepower loading should of hours of actual running time for which the engine is
not exceed 85% of rated horsepower. Engine power will certified to be emissions compliant, assuming proper
decrease 3-1/2% for each 1,000 feet (300 meters) above sea maintenance in accordance with the Operating &
level and 1% for each 10° F (5.6° C) above 77° F (25° C). It will Maintenance Instructions. The following categories are
operate satisfactorily at an angle up to 15°. used:
Moderate:
Engine is certified to be emission compliant for 125 hours
Model, Type and Code Number of actual engine running time.
To get replacement parts or technical assistance in the Intermediate:
future write you engine Model, Type and Code number Engine is certified to be emission compliant for 250 hours
along with the date of purchase here. These numbers are of actual engine running time.
located on your engine. For the location, see Engine Extended:
Features. 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.
Model Series Therefore, the Emissions Durability Period of an engine
with an intermediate rating would equate to 10 to 12
years.
Certain Briggs & Stratton engines will be certified to meet
Type the United States Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) Phase 2 emission standards. For Phase 2
certified engines, the Emissions Compliance Period
referred to on the Emissions Compliance label indicates
the number of operating hours for which the engine has
Code been shown to meet Federal emission requirements.
For engines less than 225 cc displacement.
Category C = 125 hours
Category B = 250 hours
Month/Day/Year Category A = 500 hours
For engines of 225 cc or more displacement.
Category C = 250 hours
Category B = 500 hours
Category A = 1000 hours.

13
Engine Maintenance WARNING
Regular maintenance will improve the performance and Unintentional sparking can result
extend the life of the engine. See any Authorized Briggs in fire or electric shock.
& Stratton Dealer for service. Use only genuine Briggs
Fire or explosion can cause
& Stratton parts. Other parts may not perform as
severe burns or death.
well, may damage the engine, and may result in
injury. In addition, use of other parts may void your
warranty. Unintentional start--up can result
in entanglement, traumatic
amputation, or laceration.
Emission Control
Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission Before performing maintenance:
control devices and systems may be performed by • Disconnect spark plug wire and
any nonroad engine repair establishment or keep it away from spark plug.
individual. However, to obtain no charge repairs under • Disconnect battery at negative
the terms and provisions of the Briggs & Stratton terminal (only engines with electric
warranty statement, any service or emission control part start).
repair or replacement must be performed by a factory • Do not strike the flywheel with a
authorized dealer. See Emission Warranty section for hammer or hard object because
details. the flywheel may later shatter
during operation.
• Do not tamper with governor
spring, links or other parts to
increase engine speed.
• Use only correct tools.
When testing for spark:
• Use approved spark plug tester.
• Do not check for spark with spark
plug removed.
Follow the instructions and schedules indicated below.

Task
Perform task at hourly
or calendar interval,
whichever comes first.

Check Oil Level

Change Oil *

Service foam air cleaner element **

Replace spark plug

Inspect spark arrester (if equipped)

Clean air cooling system **

Clean combustion chamber

* 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.
*** On string trimmer applications:-- clean debris at each refueling, sooner if needed
(see CLEANING DEBRIS section);-- have qualified technician clean air cooling system every 30 hours, every
season, or sooner if needed, especially in high debris conditions (see AIR COOLING SYSTEM section).

14
Air Cleaner
All engines have an air cleaner cartridge. The cartridge
is either flat or oval (see illustrations). In addition, some CAUTION
engines have a pre-cleaner.
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. Air dry
thoroughly. Do not oil. Re-assemble dry pre-cleaner on
clean cartridge.

Flat Air Cleaner

[1] Loosen screw and tilt cover down.

š
[2] Remove air filter.

[3] Install new filter with the lip of pre-cleaner ™, if

™
equipped, at bottom of cartridge pleats. š
[4] Insert cover’s tabs into slots in bottom of base.
[5] Tilt cover up into place and tighten screw.

Oval Air Cleaner

[1] Loosen two screws™ and lift off cover. ™
[2] Remove air cleaner cartridge š and pre-cleaner ›
if equipped, carefully from base to ensure no debris
falls into engine.
[3] Place new pre--cleaner on cartridge and re-install š
new cartridge assembly securely into base.
[4] Place cover over air cleaner and tighten screws.
›

Spark Plug
š
Check the spark plug every 100 hours. Replace the
spark plug if upon inspection the electrodes ™ are
burned or worn. Ensure the spark plug is clean. Check
the gap š with a feeler gage › and reset to .51 mm
or 0.20 in. if necessary. Use only Briggs & Stratton ™ ›
Spark Tester (part number 19368) to check for spark.

Note: In some areas, local law requires using resistor

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

15
Combustion Deposits
We recommend that after every 100-300 hours you have an authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer remove
combustion deposits from the cylinder, cylinder head, top of piston, and around valves.

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

Fuel System
Drain fuel tank or close fuel shut--off valve before
replacing fuel filter. Otherwise, fuel can leak out creating WARNING
a fire/explosion hazard.
Replacement parts for fuel system (cap, hoses, tanks,
filters, etc.) must be the same as original parts,
otherwise fire can occur.

Air Cooling System

Over time debris may accumulate in cylinder cooling fins and cannot be observed without partial engine disassembly. For
this reason, we recommend that you have an authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer clean the air cooling system
per recommended intervals. Equally important is to keep top of engine free from debris. See Cleaning Debris section.

Cleaning Debris
Daily or before every use, clean grass, chaff or
accumulated debris from engine. Keep linkage, spring CAUTION
and controls clean. Keep area around and behind
muffler free of any combustible debris. Do not use water to clean engine parts. Water
Keeping engine clean allows air movement around could contaminate fuel system. Use a brush or dry
engine. cloth.
Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of
overheating and ignition of accumulated debris. This is
especially important if cutting tall grass. WARNING
On string trimmer applications clean accumulated
debris at each refueling, sooner if needed.
Clean all areas shown below.

Finger Guard Linkage, Springs Muffler Area & Spark Arrester

& Controls

Carburetor Adjustment
The carburetor on this engine is not adjustable.
WARNING
Electric Start Engine The manufacturer of the equipment on which
this engine is installed specifies top speed at
Follow equipment manufacturer’s recommendation for which the engine will be operated. DO NOT
charging battery. EXCEED this speed.

16
Storage
Engines stored over 30 days need special attention.
[1] To prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on WARNING
essential carburetor parts:
a) if fuel tank contains oxygenated or reformulated When Transporting Equipment:
gasoline (gasoline blended with an alcohol or an • Transport with fuel tank EMPTY
ether), run engine until it stops from lack of fuel, or or with fuel shut--off valve OFF.
b) if fuel tank contains gasoline, either run engine
When storing gasoline or
until it stops from lack of fuel, or add a gasoline
equipment with fuel in tank:
additive to the gas in the tank. (See parts list.
Single -- use pouches of gas additive are available • Store away from furnaces,
from your service dealer.) If you use a gas additive, stoves, water heaters, or other
run the engine for several minutes to circulate the appliances that have a pilot light
additive through the carburetor. Then, engine and or other ignition source because
fuel can be stored up to 24 months. they can ignite gasoline vapors.
[2] While engine is still warm, change oil.
[3] Remove spark plug and pour about 1/2 oz. (15 ml)
of engine oil into cylinder. Replace spark plug and
crank slowly to distribute oil.
[4] Clean engine of surface debris, chaff or grass.
[5] Store in a clean, dry area. Do not store in same PARTIAL LIST OF
area as a stove, furnace, water heater, or other
appliance that uses a pilot light or has a device
GENUINE BRIGGS & STRATTON PARTS
that can create a spark. PART PART NO.
Service Flat air cleaner cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . 49158 --or-- 5043
Flat air cleaner pre--cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 493537
See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer. Oval air cleaner cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 497725
Each one carries a stock of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Oval air pre--cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273185
Parts and is equipped with special service tools. Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100005 --or-- 100028
Trained mechanics assure expert repair service on all Fuel filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298090 --or-- 5018
Briggs & Stratton engines. Only dealers advertising as Gas additive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5041
“Authorized Briggs & Stratton” are required to meet Resistor spark plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 802592
Briggs & Stratton standards When you purchase Standard spark plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 492167
equipment powered by a Briggs & Stratton engine, you Long life platinum spark plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5062
(used on most L-head engines)
are assured of highly skilled, reliable service at more
Spark plug wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89838
than 30,000 Authorized Service Dealers worldwide, Spark tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19368
including more than 5,000 Master Service Technicians. Oil pump kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5056
Look for these signs wherever Briggs & Stratton service (uses standard electric drill to remove oil from engine
is offered. quickly)
An illustrated shop manual includes common
specifications and detailed information covering
adjustment, tune-up and repair of Briggs & Stratton single
cylinder, L-head, 4 cycle engines. It is available for
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

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 Pagest” directory under “Engines,
Gasoline” or “Gasoline Engines” or “Lawn Mowers” or
similar category.

™
Note: Walking fingers logo and “Yellow Pages” are
registered trademarks in various jurisdictions.

17
Warranty Information
Briggs & Stratton Corporation (B&S), the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Emission Control System Warranty Statement (Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obliga-
tions)
The California Air Resources Board (CARB), U.S. EPA and B&S listed below, provided there has been no abuse, neglect or
are pleased to explain the Emission Control System Warranty on improper maintenance of your small off-road engine.
your small off-road engine (SORE). In California, new small Your emission control system includes parts such as the
off-road engines model year 2006 and later must be designed, carburetor, air cleaner, ignition system, fuel line, muffler and
built and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog catalytic converter. Also included may be connectors and
standards. other emission related assemblies.
Elsewhere in the United States, new non-road, spark-ignition Where a warrantable condition exists, B&S will repair your
engines certified for model year 1997 and later must meet similar small off-road engine at no cost to you including diagnosis,
standards set forth by the U.S. EPA. B&S must warrant the parts and labor.
emission control system on your engine for the periods of time

Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage

Small off-road engines are warranted relative to emission control parts defects for a period of two years, subject to provisions set
forth below. If any covered part on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by B&S.

Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities

As the small off-road engine owner, you are responsible for the You are responsible for presenting your small off-road engine
performance of the required maintenance listed in your to an Authorized B&S Service Dealer as soon as a problem
Operating and Maintenance Instructions. B&S recommends exists.
that you retain all your receipts covering maintenance on your The undisputed warranty repairs should be completed in a
small off-road engine, but B&S cannot deny warranty solely reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and
performance of all scheduled maintenance. responsibilities, you should contact a B&S Service
As the small off-road engine owner, you should however be Representative at 1-414-259-5262.
aware that B&S may deny you warranty coverage if your small The emission warranty is a defects warranty. Defects are
off-road engine or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, judged on normal engine performance. The warranty is not
improper maintenance or unapproved modifications. related to an in-use emission test.

Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Provisions

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 Part is defective, if the diagnostic work is performed at an
Coverage under this warranty extends only to the parts Authorized B&S Service Dealer. For emissions warranty
listed below (the emission control systems parts) to the service contact your nearest Authorized B&S Service
extent these parts were present on the engine purchased. Dealer as listed in the “Yellow Pages” under “Engines,
a. Fuel Metering System Gasoline,” “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mowers,” or
• Cold start enrichment system similar category.
• Carburetor and internal parts 4. Claims and Coverage Exclusions
• Fuel Pump Warranty claims shall be filed in accordance with the
• Fuel line, fuel line fittings, clamps provisions of the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. Warranty
b. Air Induction System coverage shall be excluded for failures of Warranted
• Air cleaner Parts which are not original B&S parts or because of
• Intake manifold abuse, neglect or improper maintenance as set forth in
c. Ignition System the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. B&S is not liable to
• Spark plug(s) cover failures of Warranted Parts caused by the use of
• Magneto ignition system add-on, non-original, or modified parts.
d. Catalyst System 5. Maintenance
• Catalytic converter Any Warranted Part which is not scheduled for
• Exhaust manifold replacement as required maintenance or which is
• Air injection system, Pulse valve scheduled only for regular inspection to the effect of
e. Miscellaneous Items “repair or replace as necessary” shall be warranted as to
• Vacuum, temperature, position, time sensitive defects for the warranty period. Any Warranted Part
valves which is scheduled for replacement as required
and switches maintenance shall be warranted as to defects only for the
• Connectors and assemblies period of time up to the first scheduled replacement for
2. Length of Coverage that part. Any replacement part that is equivalent in
B&S warrants to the initial owner and each subsequent performance and durability may be used in the
purchaser that the Warranted Parts shall be free from performance of any maintenance or repairs. The owner is
defects in materials and workmanship which caused the responsible for the performance of all required
failure of the Warranted Parts for a period of two years maintenance, as defined in the B&S Operating and
from the date the engine is delivered to a retail purchaser. Maintenance Instructions.
3. No Charge 6. Consequential Coverage
Repair or replacement of any Warranted Part will be Coverage hereunder shall extend to the failure of any
performed at no charge to the owner, including diagnostic engine components caused by the failure of any
labor which leads to the determination that a Warranted Warranted Part still under warranty.

18
 ABOUT YOUR ENGINE WARRANTY
Briggs & Stratton welcomes warranty repair and 4. Parts which are scored or broken because an
apologizes to you for being inconvenienced. Any engine was operated with insufficient or
Authorized Service Dealer may perform warranty contaminated lubricating oil, or an incorrect grade
repairs. Most warranty repairs are handled routinely, of lubricating oil (check oil level daily or after every
but sometimes requests for warranty service may not 8 hours of operation. Refill when necessary and
be appropriate. For example, warranty would not apply change at recommended intervals.) OIL GARD®
if engine damage occurred because of misuse, lack of may not shut down running engine. Engine
routine maintenance, shipping, handling, warehousing damage may occur if oil level is not properly
or improper installation. Similarly, warranty is void if the maintained. Read Operating & Maintenance
serial number of the engine has been removed or the Instructions.
engine has been altered or modified. 5. Repair or adjustment of associated parts or
If a customer differs with the decision of the Service assemblies such as clutches, transmissions,
Dealer, an investigation will be made to determine remote controls, etc., which are not manufactured
whether the warranty applies. Ask the Service Dealer by Briggs & Stratton.
to submit all supporting facts to his Distributor or the 6. Damage or wear to parts caused by dirt, which
Factory for review. If the Distributor or the Factory entered the engine because of improper air
decides that the claim is justified, the customer will be cleaner maintenance, re-assembly, or use of a
fully reimbursed for those items that are defective. To non-original air cleaner element or cartridge. (At
avoid misunderstanding which might occur between recommended intervals, clean and re-oil the
the customer and the Dealer, listed below are some of Oil-Foam® element or the foam pre-cleaner, and
the causes of engine failure that the warranty does not replace the cartridge.) Read Operating &
cover. Maintenance Instructions.
Normal wear:
7. Parts damaged by over-speeding, or overheating
Engines, like all mechanical devices, need periodic
caused by grass, debris, or dirt, which plugs or
parts service and replacement to perform well.
clogs the cooling fins, or flywheel area, or damage
Warranty will not cover repair when normal use has
caused by operating the engine in a confined area
exhausted the life of a part or an engine.
without sufficient ventilation. (Clean fins on the
Improper maintenance:
cylinder, cylinder head and flywheel at
The life of an engine depends upon the conditions
recommended intervals.) Read Operating &
under which it operates, and the care it receives.
Maintenance Instructions.
Some applications, such as tillers, pumps and rotary
mowers, are very often used in dusty or dirty 8. Engine or equipment parts broken by excessive
conditions, which can cause what appears to be vibration caused by a loose engine mounting,
premature wear. Such wear, when caused by dirt, dust, loose cutter blades, unbalanced blades or loose or
spark plug cleaning grit, or other abrasive material that unbalanced impellers, improper attachment of
has entered the engine because of improper equipment to engine crankshaft, over-speeding or
maintenance, is not covered by warranty. other abuse in operation.
This warranty covers engine related defective 9. A bent or broken crankshaft, caused by striking a
material and/or workmanship only, and not solid object with the cutter blade of a rotary lawn
replacement or refund of the equipment to which mower, or excessive v-belt tightness.
the engine may be mounted. Nor does the warranty 10. Routine tune-up or adjustment of the engine.
extend to repairs required because of: 11. Engine or engine component failure, i.e.,
1. PROBLEMS CAUSED BY PARTS THAT ARE combustion chamber, valves, valve seats, valve
NOT ORIGINAL BRIGGS & STRATTON PARTS. guides, or burned starter motor windings, caused
2. Equipment controls or installations that prevent by the use of alternate fuels such as, liquified
starting, cause unsatisfactory engine performance, petroleum, natural gas, altered gasolines, etc.
or shorten engine life. (Contact equipment Warranty is available only through service dealers
manufacturer.) which have been authorized by Briggs & Stratton
3. Leaking carburetors, clogged fuel pipes, sticking Corporation. your nearest Authorized Service
valves, or other damage, caused by using Dealer is listed in the “Yellow Pages™” of your
contaminated or stale fuel. (Use clean, fresh, telephone directory under “Engines, Gasoline” or
lead-free gasoline and Briggs & Stratton Fuel “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mowers,” or similar
Stabilizer, Part No. 5041.) category.

19
 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE OWNER WARRANTY POLICY

Effective June 1, 2004 replaces all undated Warranties and all Warranties dated before June 1, 2004

LIMITED WARRANTY
Briggs & Stratton Corporation will repair or replace, free of charge, any part(s) of the engine that is 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 effective for the time periods and subject to the conditions stated below. For warranty service, find the
nearest Authorized Service Dealer in our dealer locator map at www.briggsandstratton.com, or by calling 1-800-233-3723,
or as listed in the ‘Yellow Pages™’.
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 INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXCLUDED TO THE EXTENT EXCLUSION IS PERMITTED BY LAW. Some states or
countries do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, and some states or countries 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 and country to country.

OUR PRODUCT
Vanguard™ ELS™ Fource™ Classic™ Etek™
I/Cr Intek™
Industrial Plus™ (Kool Bore)
Intek™ Power Built™ OHV
(Sleeve Bore) Quantumr
Quattro™
Q45™
Sprint™

WARRANTY PERIOD*
Consumer Use 2 years 2 years 1 year
2 years 1 year
Commercial Use 1 year 90 days 90 days

* Note the following special warranty periods: 2 years for Classic™ engines in the European Union and Eastern European countries,
for all consumer products in the European Union, and for emission control systems on engines certified by EPA and CARB. 5 years for
consumer use, 90 days for commercial use of Touch-N-Mow® starter on Quantum® and Intek™ engines. Engines used in
competitive racing or on commercial or rental tracks are not warrantied. Engines operating on Kerosene fuel carry a one year for
consumer use, 90 days for commercial use.

The warranty period begins on the date of purchase by the first retail consumer or commercial end user, and continues for the period of time
stated in the table above. “Consumer use” means personal residential household use by a retail consumer. “Commercial use” means all
other uses, including use for commercial, income producing or rental purposes. Once an engine has experienced commercial use, it shall
thereafter be considered as a commercial use engine for purposes of this warranty.
NO WARRANTY REGISTRATION IS NECESSARY TO OBTAIN WARRANTY ON BRIGGS & STRATTON PRODUCTS. SAVE YOUR
PROOF OF PURCHASE RECEIPT. IF YOU DO NOT PROVIDE PROOF OF THE INITIAL PURCHASE DATE AT THE TIME WARRANTY
SERVICE IS REQUESTED, THE MANUFACTURING DATE OF THE PRODUCT WILL BE USED TO DETERMINE THE WARRANTY
PERIOD.
Briggs & Stratton Engines Are Made Under One Or More Of The Following Patents: Design D-247,177 (Other Patents Pending)
6,691,683 6,520,141 6,325,036 6,145,487 6,012,420 5,803,035 5,548,955 5,243,878 5,138,996 4,875,448 D 476,629
6,647,942 6,495,267 6,311,663 6,142,257 5,992,367 5,765,713 5,546,901 5,235,943 5,086,890 4,819,593 D 457,891
6,622,683 6,494,175 6,284,123 6,135,426 5,904,124 5,732,555 5,445,014 5,234,038 5,070,829 4,720,638 D 368,187
6,615,787 6,472,790 6,263,852 6,116,212 5,894,715 5,645,025 5,503,125 5,228,487 5,058,544 4,719,682 D 375,963
6,617,725 6,460,502 6,260,529 6,105,548 5,887,678 5,642,701 5,501,203 5,197,426 5,040,644 4,633,556 D 309,457
6,603,227 6,456,515 6,242,828 6,347,614 5,852,951 5,628352 5,497,679 5,197,425 5,009,208 4,630,498 D 372,871
6,595,897 6,382,166 6,239,709 6,082,323 5,843,345 5,619,845 5,320,795 5,197,422 4,996,956 4,522,080 D 361,771
6,595,176 6,369,532 6,237,555 6,077,063 5,823,153 5,606,948 5,301,643 5,191,864 4,977,879 4,520,288 D 356,951
6,584,964 6,356,003 6,230,678 6,064,027 5,819,513 5,606,851 5,271,363 5,188,069 4,977,877 4,512,499 D 309,457
6,557,833 6,349,688 6,213,083 6,040,767 5,813,384 5,605,130 5,269,713 5,186,142 4,971,219 4,453,507 D 308,872
6,542,074 6,347,614 6,202,616 6,014,808 5,809,958 5,497,679 5,265,700 5,150,674 4,895,119 4,430,984 D 308,871

20