resources/forums for small engine/mower repair?
 

Anyone know of on-line resources for small engine repair? I just got a riding mower that I would like to rebuild the engine, but can't seem to find any resources for torque specifications, tolerances, etc. I found exploded view parts diagrams on the B&S site (very cool BTW), but no service information.

Specifically I'm looking for detailed information on Briggs & Stratton engine model number 28n707 type 0121 (15HP I/C OHV).

Any leads would be appreciated! SmileWavy

me too! i search and found a useless bbs on small engines.

i need help with a suitcased sized honda generator (EM500). the carb needs rebuilding.

I used to rebuild these things when I was a kid. Just take it apart and replace the "consumables". Simply reverse the operation to reassemble. :D

Actually, there are a couple of worthwhile books on the subject which include specs on tolerances and adjustments. They may also be in the library.

Cliff is that a 2 stroke engine with a diaphram carb?

BTW, one of these CDs from Ebay may be very helpful.... http://search.ebay.com/small-engine-repair_W0QQsokeywordredirectZ1QQfromZR8

no, it is a 4 stroke. i got the carb all apart and i cleaned the crap outta everything, but no go. it runs sweet if i play the part of the carb with a can of starter fluid. i am thinking vacumn leak.

Might be time for a rebuild kit.

rick i am thinking the same thing. the fuel was varnish. at least it doesnt look hard.

Be careful of the "soak in Easy-off" tricks. They remove varnish AND plating. Not good.

The cost of having a carb rebuilt by a B+S shop is too cheap to try to do yourself. I just had my 18hp card rebuilt for $17. The pickup and return of the mower cost $18. The parts kit would have cost me $10 and a lost weekend screwing with it.
However, if you are going to try a carb, or engine, rebuild, B+S has a good book at there website. I don't remember the the title but it was easy to pick out. About $30 on my doorstep. I bought it since I have 10 B+S motors to keep running for my mini-farm (20 acres) in PA.
Terry

This is the best "free" information I have found for troubleshooting small engines and reparing lawn mowers.

Small engine repairs

This is a text file that you can copy and make a Word document out of it and then search for your specific problem.

If you had a varnished (old gas) carb that you have taken apart - cleaned - put back together and it still doesn't run right, then you did not get it clean enough. Those little carbs have very small holes and one is probably clogged. Take it apart again - clean with xylol - use a strand of very fine wire to poke all the holes and blow everything out with compressed air. Should solve the problem. I clean 2 stroke carbs all the time due to inactivity and old gas. If you clean every hole - some are hard to find - then it should work with no new parts required (except gaskets if they get damaged.

randy, i forgot about this thread. thanks. i put the generator in the corner and i blew it off. i will re-visit it this weekend. looks like my girlfriend's little suzuki will need to be address before it is in the same hell.

You can get the shop manual for the EM500 here:

http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2.asp?class%5F2=AHP&mk=Honda+Power+Equipmen t&yr=All+Years&md=Generators&dt=Shop%2FService+Inf ormation&module=&from=result&Style=&Sku=6189202&it emtype=N&mscsid=52EC8EURD3LX8GU6SLMFH5H138HW8QF4

Disclosure: I work for Honda Power Equipment, and in a VERY small way, purchasing this document will benefit me.