Briggs & Stratton 276535, 271172 Systems Check, Check Ignition, Engine Stopped, Engine Running

SYSTEMS CHECK

Most complaints concerning engine operation can be classified as one or a combination of the following:

•Will not start

•Hard starting

•Lack of power

•Runs rough

•Vibration

•Overheating

•High oil consumption

The source of most of these symptoms can be determined by performing a systems check in the following order:

1.Ignition

2.Carburetion

3.Compression

This check-up can usually be done in a matter of minutes. It is the quickest and surest method of determining the cause of failure.

NOTE: What appears to be an engine malfunction may be a fault of the powered equipment rather than the engine. If the equipment is suspect, see Equipment Affecting Engine Operation.

1) Check Ignition

Engine Stopped

With spark plug installed, attach Ignition Tester #19368 to spark plug lead and ground the other end of the tester (Figure 1). Pull the starter rope or activate the electric starter (if equipped). If spark jumps the tester gap, you may assume the ignition system is functioning satisfactorily.

Figure 1

Engine Running

If engine runs but misses during operation, a quick check to determine whether the ignition is at fault can be made by installing Ignition Tester #19368 between the spark plug lead and spark plug (Figure 2). If spark is good but engine misses, install a new spark plug.

Figure 2

If spark does not occur, look for:

•Improperly operating interlock system

•Shorted equipment or engine stop switch wire

•Incorrect armature air gap

•Armature failure

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