Briggs & Stratton 131F manual Hot engine causes a decrease in power

Troubleshooting Chart

Problem		Solution
The engine will not idle.	1.	Replace the spark plug.
	2.	Clean the air filter.
	3.	Adjust the carburetor.
	4.	Adjust the throttle control.
	5.	Drain the fuel tank. Clean the fuel line. Replace the fuel filter.
A hot engine causes a decrease in power.	1.	Clean the air screen.
	2.	Check the oil.
	3.	Adjust the carburetor.
	4.	Replace the fuel filter.
Excessive vibration.	1.	Replace the blade.
	2.	Check for loose engine bolts.
	3.	Decrease the air pressure in the tires.
	4.	Adjust the carburetor.
	5.	Check for a damaged belt or damaged pulley. Replace the damaged
		parts.
The grass does not discharge correctly.	1.	Stop the engine. Clean the mower housing.
	2.	Raise the height of cut.
	3.	Replace or sharpen the blade(s).
	4.	Move the shift lever to a lower speed.
	5.	Move the throttle control to the FAST position.
	6.	Replace the spring for the blade idler.
	7.	Clean the extension tube and the connector tube (applies only to
		model with rear discharge grass bag).
The mower housing does not cut level.	1.	Check the air pressure in the tires.
	2.	Adjust the level of the mower housing.
	3.	Check the front axle. If the front axle does not freely pivot, loosen
		the axle bolt(s).
The mower blades will not rotate.	1.	Check the mower drive belt. Make sure the belt is installed correctly.
	2.	Replace the mower drive belt.
The unit will not move when the clutch is	1.	Check the motion drive belt. Make sure the belt is installed correctly.
engaged.
	2.	Adjust the clutch.
	3.	Replace the motion drive belt.
The unit moves slower or stops when the	1.	Adjust the clutch.
clutch is engaged.
	2.	Replace the motion drive belt.

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