Before starting this engine, read and understand

this Operator/Owner Manual. Failure to follow instructions

in this manual could result in serious injury or death.

     
    28N700, 287700,
28P700, 28Q700, 28S700, 28U700,
310700, 311700, 312700, 313700

Model Type Code

For future reference, write your engine Model/Type/Code here.

For future reference, write your engine Date of Purchase here.

Table of Contents
In the Interest of Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Oil & Fuel Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Service, Storage & Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Starting & Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Emission System Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 About Engine Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Engine Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201 FORM NO. 273683-7/98
www.briggsandstratton.com  Copyright 1998 by Briggs & Stratton Corporation PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any nonroad en-
gine 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.

In the Interest of Safety

This safety alert symbol indicates that this message You are not ready to operate this engine if you
involves personal safety. Words danger, warning have not read and understood the following
and caution indicate degree of hazard. Death, safety items. Read this entire owner’s manual and
personal injury and/or property damage may occur the operating instructions of the equipment this
unless instructions are followed carefully. engine powers.
The Briggs & Stratton engine you bought with your equipment is made of the finest material in a state-of-the-art manufacturing
facility. Please understand that Briggs & Stratton sells engines to original equipment manufacturers. It also sells to others in the
distribution chain who may sell to the ultimate consumer, an equipment manufacturer, another distributor or a dealer. As a result,
Briggs & Stratton does not necessarily know the application on which the engine will be placed. For that reason, you should
carefully read and understand the operating instructions of the equipment on which your engine is placed before you operate it.
You should also understand that there are equipment applications for which Briggs & Stratton does not approve the use of its
engines. Briggs & Stratton engines are not to be used on vehicles with less than 4 wheels. They include motor bikes, aircraft
products and All Terrain Vehicles. Moreover, Briggs & Stratton does not approve of its engines being used in competitive events.
F0R THAT REASON, BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES ARE NOT AUTHORIZED FOR ANY OF THESE APPLICATIONS. Fail-
ure to follow this warning could result in death, serious injury (including paralysis) or property damage.
DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area. DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed. (Use an
(Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an approved tester.)
odorless and deadly poison.) DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed. (If engine is
DO NOT remove fuel tank cap nor fill fuel tank while flooded, place throttle in FAST and crank until engine starts.)
engine is hot or running. DO NOT refuel indoors or in DO NOT strike flywheel with a hammer or hard object as this
an unventilated area. (Allow engine to cool 2 min- may cause flywheel to shatter in operation. (To remove flywheel,
utes before refueling.) use Briggs & Stratton approved tools only.)
DO NOT place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts. DO NOT operate engine without a muffler. (Inspect periodically
DO NOT store, spill, or use gasoline near an open flame, nor and replace if worn or leaking. If engine is equipped with muf-
near an appliance like a stove, furnace, or water heater that fler deflector, inspect periodically and replace if necessary. Re-
uses a pilot light or can create a spark. placement parts must be same as on original equipment.)
DO NOT refuel indoors or in an unventilated area. DO NOT operate engine with an accumulation of grass,
DO NOT operate or tip engine/equipment at such a severe leaves or other combustible material in muffler area.
angle that causes gasoline spillage. DO NOT use this engine on any forest covered, brush cov-
DO NOT operate engine if gasoline is spilled or when smell of ered, or grass covered unimproved land unless a spark ar-
gasoline is present or other explosive conditions exist. (Move rester is installed on muffler. The spark arrester must be main-
equipment away from spill and avoid any ignition until gasoline tained in working order by the owner and/or operator. In the
has evaporated.) State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442
DO NOT transport engine with fuel in tank or fuel shut-off of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may
valve open. have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
DO NOT choke carburetor to stop engine, especially in an en- DO NOT touch hot muffler, cylinder, or fins which can cause
closed vehicle. (Whenever possible, gradually reduce engine burns.
speed before stopping.) DO NOT start engine with air cleaner or air cleaner cover re-
DO NOT tamper with governor springs, links or other parts to moved (or cover over carburetor air intake, if Sno/Gard engine).
increase engine speed. (Run engine at speed set for equipment DO NOT attempt to start engine with cutting blade loose or re-
manufacturer.) moved. (Blade must be tight, otherwise a kickback may occur.)
✔ PULL starter cord slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull leaks. Replace if necessary.
cord rapidly to avoid kickback and prevent hand or arm injury. ✔ Use only Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts or their
✔ PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING by removing spark equivalent. The use of replacement parts which are
plug wire from spark plug when servicing engine or equip- not of equivalent quality may damage the engine.
ment. Disconnect negative wire from battery terminal if
equipped with electric starting system.
✔ REMOVE blower housing periodically and clean engine.


Keep cylinder fins and governor parts free of dirt, grass The engine exhaust from this product
and other debris which can affect engine speed. contains chemicals known to the State
✔ USE fresh gasoline. Stale fuel can gum carburetor and of California to cause cancer, birth
cause leakage. defects, or other reproductive harm.
✔ CHECK fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or
International Safety Alert - Read On Off Stop Fuel
Symbols Owner’s Manual Shutoff Fuel Choke

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.
2
Oil & Fuel Recommendations
Oil Fuel
This engine is shipped from Briggs & Stratton without oil. Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum
Before starting engine, check oil level as shown below. of 85 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Fresh fuel prevents
Change and add oil according to chart below. Do not over-fill. gum from forming in fuel system or on essential carburetor
Use a high quality detergent oil classified “For Service SF, parts. Purchase fuel in quantity that can be used within 30
SG, SH,” such as Briggs & Stratton “warranty certified” SAE days. In countries other than the U.S.A., leaded gasoline may
30 oil, Part No. 100005. Use no special additives with recom- be used if commercially available and unleaded is unavailable.
mended oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline. We recommend the use of Briggs & Stratton Gasoline Additive.
SAE Viscosity Grades (See your Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer for
Part No. 5041 or the single-use pouch.) See storage instruc-
** tions, on page 9.
* Note: Some fuels, called oxygenated or reformulated
gasolines, are gasolines blended with alcohols or ethers.
Excessive amounts of these blends can damage the fuel
system or cause performance problems. Do not use gasoline
°F -20 0 20 32 40 60 80 100
which contains Methanol. If any undesirable operating
°C -30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
symptoms occur, use gasoline with a lower percentage of
STARTING TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
alcohol or ether.
* Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines. The use of
Do not over-fill fuel tank.
multi-viscosity oil such as (10W-30, etc.) in ambient temperatures
above 40° F (4° C) will result in higher than normal oil consumption. Allow space for fuel expansion.
If multi-viscosity oil is used, check the oil level more frequently to
prevent any possible engine damage due to lack of lubrication.
** Use of SAE 30 oil below 40° F (4° C) will result in hard starting
and possible engine damage due to inadequate lubrication.

Check oil level before starting engine. 4

3
Add oil as shown below.
Oil capacity is about 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4 liter).
Oil capacity is about 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4 liters) if
engine is not equipped with oil filter. 2
Oil capacity is about 1-3/4 quarts (56 ounces or 1.7 liters) if
engine is equipped with oil filter.
After filling with or changing oil, start and run engine at idle for
30 seconds. Shut engine off. Wait 30 seconds and check oil
level. Add oil, if required, to bring level to Full mark on dipstick. 1. Oil drain
2. Oil fill/Dipstick
3. Rotating screen 5
4. Blower housing
5. Muffler 1 6
6. 12V electric starter

12 7

Place engine level. Remove dipstick. Tighten dipstick.

Clean around oil fill. Wipe with clean cloth. Remove & check.

11

7. Air cleaner 8
8. In-line fuel filter, 9
if equipped
9. Carburetor 10
10. Oil filter, if equipped
11. Spark plug wire
Oil level should If oil is required, add Tighten dipstick be- 12. Engine Model Type Code
be at FULL mark. slowly. Recheck level. fore starting engine. xxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxx

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.
3
Starting & Stopping
Choke operation/engine warm-up Start engine
This engine is a low emissions engine which operates differently Always keep hands and feet clear of mower blade or
from previously built engines. It is designed for maximum other rotating machinery.
performance and life if operated with the choke fully open (in
RUN) and throttle fully open (in FAST). To open the choke fully Electric starter
requires an engine warm-up period of several seconds to Turn key to START or press button. Repeat if necessary with
several minutes, depending on the temperature. throttle control in FAST position. Operate engine in FAST
After starting engine, first open the choke (toward RUN) until position.
the engine just begins to run smoothly. Then open the choke in Note: If equipment manufacturer has supplied battery, charge it
small steps, allowing the engine to accept small changes in before trying to start engine, as equipment manufacturer recom-
speed and load, until the choke is fully open (in RUN). mends. Use short starting cycles (15 secs. per min.) to prolong
During engine warm-up, the equipment can be operated. starter life. Extended cranking can damage starter motor.
To obtain best starting results
Store and fuel lawn mower in level position. PRESS
BUTTON
Start lawn mower on hard surface or over previously cut grass.
Do not use a pressurized starting fluid. Starting fluid is
flammable. Severe engine damage or fire may occur.
Periodically remove grass build-up under mower Typical electric starter
deck. Remove spark plug wire before removing grass.
When tipping lawn mower to remove grass, keep Rewind starter (auxiliary), if equipped
spark plug side of engine up. If your engine is equipped
A warm engine requires less choking than a cold engine. with an auxiliary rewind
starter, grasp rope handle
Starting in cold weather: as illustrated and pull slowly until
resistance is felt. Then pull cord
Use the correct oil for the starting temperature expected. rapidly to overcome compres-
De-clutch all possible external loads. sion, prevent kickback and start
Set speed control at part throttle position. engine. Repeat if necessary with
A warm battery has more starting capacity than a cold battery. choke off and throttle control in
FAST position. Operate engine Rewind starter
Do not use gasoline left over from summer. Use fresh winter in FAST position.
grade gasoline which has higher volatility to improve starting.
Stop engine
Before starting engine Do not move choke control to CHOKE position to stop engine.
Move choke control to CHOKE or START position. Backfire or engine damage may occur.
If equipment has separate choke and throttle controls, move Keep throttle control in FAST position. Turn key to OFF.
throttle control to FAST position. Always remove key from switch, if equipped, when equipment
is not in use or left unattended.
Note: Choke must fully close. If engine does not start, see
control adjustments on page 5.

Typical stop controls

Typical choke and throttle controls
When engine is transported,
Open fuel shut-off valve, if close fuel shut-off valve (if
equipped. equipped) to prevent fuel
leakage.
1/4 TURN
1/4 TURN

Typical fuel shut-off Typical fuel shut-off

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.
4
Adjustments
Control adjustments Carburetor adjustments

WIRE 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
To prevent accidental starting, remove speed.
and ground spark plug wire and dis-
connect battery at negative terminal, if Differences in fuel, temperature, altitude or load may require
equipped, when adjusting controls. minor carburetor adjustment. Air cleaner and air cleaner cover
must be assembled to carburetor before starting engine.
Remote choke control:
The carburetor on this engine is low emission. It is equipped
Move choke control to CHOKE or START position. Choke
with an idle mixture valve with a limiter (see inset), which allows
valve should be closed. To assure choke valve is closed,
loosen casing clamp screw and pull casing, wire and choke some adjustment, and an idle speed adjustment screw.
lever in direction of arrow to end of travel. With choke control Adjustments
in CHOKE or START position, tighten casing clamp screw. Start engine and warm up approximately 5 minutes before
CASING CLAMP SCREW adjusting. With engine running, place throttle control in SLOW
position. Rotate carburetor throttle lever against the idle
speed screw and hold it. Turn idle speed screw to obtain 1750
rpm.
Rotate idle mixture valve full travel clockwise and then
counterclockwise. Finally, position idle mixture valve in
middle of travel. Check idle speed and re-adjust to 1750 rpm,
if necessary.
Move throttle control to FAST position. Engine should
accelerate smoothly. If it does not, adjust idle mixture valve
counterclockwise 1/8 turn.

Choke control adjustment CARBURETOR

THROTTLE
LEVER

To adjust throttle control:

IDLE MIXTURE
With throttle control in FAST position, hole in governor control VALVE
lever (located just behind governor control plate) must align WITH LIMITER

with hole in governor control plate, as illustrated below. If it

does not, loosen casing clamp screw and then move gover-
nor control rack until it does. Tighten casing clamp screw.
IDLE SPEED
SCREW
Check stop switch
Move throttle control to STOP position, if equipped. Governor
control lever must make good contact with stop switch.
Check operation of controls. Readjust if necessary.
HOLE IN GOVERNOR
STOP
GOVERNOR
SWITCH CONTROL Carburetor adjustments
CONTROL LEVER
PLATE

GOVERNOR CASING
CONTROL CLAMP
RACK SCREW

Throttle control adjustment

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
 See Maintenance Schedule, page 8. Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.
Maintenance Note that more frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions.
WIRE
Air cleaner

To prevent accidental starting, remove

and ground spark plug wire and dis-
connect battery at negative terminal, if COVER
equipped, when adjusting controls. KNOB

Oil COVER

CARTRIDGE
Check oil level regularly. KNOB

Be sure correct oil level is maintained. Check every 8 hours or

daily, before starting engine. See check oil level on page 3. CARTRIDGE &
PRE-CLEANER
5053

Change oil (Follow Maintenance Schedule.)

STUD
Change oil after first 5 hours of operation. Change oil while
engine is warm.
BASE
Remove drain plug and drain oil. Replace and tighten drain
plug. Remove dipstick and refill with new oil of recommended Dual element air cleaner
grade (see chart, page 3). Start and run engine at idle for
30 seconds. Stop engine. Wait 30 seconds and re-check oil
level. If required, add oil to bring level to FULL mark on dipstick.
Note: Depending on engine Type Number, this engine may
not be equipped with a pre-cleaner.
PIPE
7/16”
1. Remove cover knob and cover.
2. Remove cartridge knob. Carefully lift pre-cleaner and
cartridge from base over stud.
HEX
5/16” 3. Clean base carefully to prevent debris from entering
OIL DRAIN TO REMOVE carburetor.
PLUG
Typical To service pre-cleaner, wash in liquid detergent and water.
drain Squeeze dry in a clean cloth. Saturate in engine oil. Squeeze
plugs Oil drain Oil fill in clean, absorbent cloth to remove all EXCESS oil. Replace if
very dirty or damaged.
To service cartridge, clean by tapping gently on a flat surface.
Change oil filter, if equipped Do not oil cartridge. Replace if very dirty or damaged.
(Follow Maintenance Schedule.)
Replace oil filter after every 100 hours of operation or every
season, whichever occurs first. Before installing new filter,
lightly oil filter gasket with fresh, clean engine oil. Screw filter
on by hand until gasket contacts oil filter adapter. Tighten 1/2

to 3/4 turn more. Start and run engine at idle to check for oil
leaks. Recheck oil level and add oil if required.
PRE-CLEANER CARTRIDGE
272403 496894

Pre-cleaner Cartridge

OIL FILTER Note: Do not use petroleum solvents, e.g., kerosene, which will
P/N SEE PAGE 8 cause the cartridge to deteriorate. Do not use pressurized air to
clean cartridge. Pressurized air can damage the cartridge.
4. Reassemble pre-cleaner on cartridge and place assembly
over stud on base. Tighten cartridge knob.
Oil filter 5. Replace cover and tighten cover knob securely.
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.
6
 See Maintenance Schedule, page 8. Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.
Maintenance Note that more frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions.
Keep engine and parts clean. Grass, chaff or debris may clog the air cooling system, especial-
Do not clean with a forceful spray of water because water ly after prolonged operation cutting tall, dry grass. Remove
could contaminate fuel system. blower housing and clean area shown to prevent overheating
and engine damage. Clean more often if necessary.
With a brush or cloth, CLEAN CLEAN
remove grass, chaff or CLEAN OUT
CHAFF AND
debris from finger guard DEBRIS
or rotating screen daily
(more often if needed)
to prevent engine dam-
age caused by over-
heating. Finger guard Rotating screen

To assure smooth
operation, keep gover-
nor linkage, springs
and controls free of
debris.
Air cooling system
Replace spark plug. Do .030” (0.76 mm)
CLEAN not blast clean. Clean by WIRE GAGE
scraping or wire brushing
Linkage, springs & controls and washing with a
commercial solvent.
If engine muffler is equipped with spark arrester screen, Use only Briggs & Strat-
remove for cleaning and inspection. Replace if damaged or ton Spark Tester, Part No. RESISTOR
PART NO. 491055
plugged. See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer 19368, to check for spark.
for correct replacement. Spark plug
Note: In some areas, local law requires using resistor spark plug
CLEAN
to suppress ignition signals. If this engine was originally equipped
with resistor spark plug, use same type for replacement.
Daily or more often, Replace in-line fuel filter. FILTER
before running en- See any Authorized
gine, clean muffler ARRESTER Briggs & Stratton Dealer
area to remove all for correct replacement.
grass and combus-
tible debris. Drain fuel tank or
PART NO. 394358 P/N 298090 OR 5018
CLEAN
close fuel shut-off (WITH FUEL PUMP) (WITHOUT FUEL PUMP)
valve before re-
Muffler and spark arrester placing fuel filter. In-line fuel filter

See any Authorized Briggs & Stratton Fill in both sides, clip and return to: 273683
Service Dealer. Insist on Genuine Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Briggs & Stratton parts! Non-original P.O. Box 1144
parts may not perform as well and Milwaukee, WI 53201-1144 U.S.A.
may void your warranty.
To obtain a complete Parts 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. (Please
allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery.) Your Engine
Model Type Code

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.
7
Maintenance Schedule 273683

Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.

More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions noted below.

Every 8 Hours 25 Hours or 50 Hours or 100 Hours or

Maintenance Operation Yearly
or Daily Every Season Every Season Every Season
Check oil level



Change oil ♦
Note 1
Replace oil filter, if equipped

Service air cleaner pre-cleaner, if

equipped Note 2
Service air cleaner cartridge,

if not equipped with pre-cleaner Note 2
Service air cleaner cartridge,

if equipped with pre-cleaner Note 2
Inspect spark arrester,


if equipped


Clean cooling system
Note 2
Replace spark plug and


fuel filter, if equipped
Check valve clearance

♦ Change oil after first 5 hours, then after every 50 hours or every season.
Note 1: Change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures.
Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present.
Note 2:
Replace air cleaner parts, if very dirty.
Briggs & Stratton Part Numbers of some Briggs & Stratton Part Numbers of some
Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts: Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts:
Part Briggs & Stratton Part No. Part Briggs & Stratton Part No.
Air cleaner cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 496894 Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100005 or 100028
Air cleaner pre-cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272403 Oil filter (3-1/2 in. long) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 491056
Air cleaner cartridge & pre-cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5053 Oil filter (2-1/4 in. long) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 492932
Resistor spark plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 491055 Fuel filter (with fuel pump) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 394358
Spark plug wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89838 or 5023 Fuel filter (without fuel pump) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298090
Spark tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19368 Gas additive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5041

Only Genuine Briggs

Payment Method: Fill in both sides of this order form carefully
& Stratton Parts
 Check or money order enclosed payable to have the Briggs &
Briggs & Stratton Corporation in the amount of $________ (U.S. Dollars, please)
Stratton logo!

 Please charge my  MasterCard  VISA

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
CREDIT CARD NUMBER

SIGNATURE (REQUIRED FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS EXPIRATION DATE

Parts List $2.00

Shipping & Handling $1.50
**Add State Sales Tax Add sales tax if you live in any of the following states:
               Look for Briggs & Stratton logo
Total              stamped on part and/or package!
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.
8
Service, Storage & Specifications
For service Storage instructions
See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer. Each Engines stored over 30 days need to be protected or drained
one carries a stock of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts and is of fuel to prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on
equipped with special service tools. Trained mechanics essential carburetor parts.
assure expert repair service on all Briggs & Stratton engines.
Only dealers advertising as “Authorized Briggs & Stratton”
are required to meet Briggs & Stratton standards. 1. For engine protection, we recommend use of
Briggs & Stratton Gasoline Additive, Part No.
When you purchase equipment powered by a 5041, available from an Authorized Briggs &
Briggs & Stratton engine, you are assured of Stratton Service Dealer. Mix Additive with
highly skilled, reliable service at more than fuel in fuel tank or storage container. Run
30,000 Authorized Service Dealers worldwide, engine for a short time to circulate Additive
including more than 2,700 Master Service through carburetor. Engine and fuel can be
Technicians. Look for these signs wherever P/N 5041 stored up to 24 months.
Briggs & Stratton service is offered.
Your Service Dealer has single-use
You may locate your nearest Authorized Briggs & pouches of Gasoline Additive available.
Stratton Service Dealer in the “Yellow Pages”
directory under “Engines, Gasoline” or “Gasoline
 Engines,” or “Lawn Mowers” or similar category.
Note: If engine is operating on oxygenated or reformulated
Or log on to our dealer locator map on our web site gasoline (gasoline blended with an alcohol or an ether),
www.briggsandstratton.com remove all fuel from tank and run engine until it stops from
Note: Walking fingers logo and “Yellow Pages” are registered lack of fuel. If engine is stored with gasoline in fuel tank, we
trademarks in various jurisdictions. recommend the use of Gasoline additive, Part No. 5041.
The illustrated shop manual shown here
includes “Theories of Operation,” com- 2. While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase
mon specifications and detailed informa- (see page 6). Refill with fresh oil of recommended grade
tion covering adjustment, tune-up and (see chart page 3).
repair of Briggs & Stratton single cylinder, 3. Remove spark plug and pour about 1 oz (30 ml) of engine
overhead valve, 4 cycle engines. It is oil into cylinder. Replace spark plug and crank slowly to
available from an Authorized Briggs & distribute oil.
Stratton Service Dealer or you can order
it from the factory. Write: 4. Clean dirt and chaff from cylinder, cylinder head fins, blower
Briggs & Stratton Corporation housing, rotating screen and muffler area (see page 7).
Part No. 272147
Attn: Service Division 5. Store in a clean and dry area, but NOT near a stove,
P. O. Box 1144 furnace or water heater which uses a pilot light or any
Milwaukee, WI 53201 device that can create a spark.
General information Tune-up specifications
This is a single cylinder, over-head valve (OHV), air-cooled Armature air gap is .010-.014 in. (.25-.36 mm)
engine.
Spark plug gap is .030 in. (.76 mm)
On mobile equipment, this engine will operate satisfactorily at Valve clearance is:
any angle at which operator and equipment can function safely.
Intake* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .003-.005 in. (.08-.13 mm)
Model Series 28E700, 28N700, 287700, 28P700, 28Q700, Exhaust* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .005-.007 in. (.13-.18 mm)
28S700, 28U700
* with valve springs installed and piston 1/4 in. (6mm) past
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7/16 in. (87.31 mm) top dead center.
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1/16 in. (77.78 mm)
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28.42cu. in. (465.7 cc)
Torque (Max.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22.9 ft. lbs. @ 2700 rpm
Model Series 310700, 311700, 312700, 313700
Bore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9/16 in. (90.60 mm)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1/16 in. (77.78 mm)
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30.59 cu. in. (501.2 cc)
Note: For practical operation, the horsepower loading should
not exceed 85% of rated horsepower. Engine power will
decrease 3-1/2% for each 1,000 feet (300 meters) above sea
level and 1% for each 10° F (5.6° C) above 77° F (25° C).
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.
9
 Briggs & Stratton Corporation (B&S), the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 273683
and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Emission Control System Warranty Statement (Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations)
In the interest of the environment, B&S engines that meet strict emis- TO CERTIFIED ENGINES PURCHASED IN CALIFORNIA IN 1995
sion requirements are labeled, “This engine conforms to 1995 - 1998 AND THEREAFTER, WHICH ARE USED IN CALIFORNIA, AND
California emission regulations for ULGE engines and U.S. EPA TO CERTIFIED MODEL YEAR 1997 AND LATER ENGINES
Phase I regulations for small non-road engines.” WHICH ARE PURCHASED AND USED ELSEWHERE IN THE
EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY COVERAGE IS APPLICABLE UNITED STATES.
California and United States Emission Control Defects Warranty Statement
CARB, U.S. EPA and B&S are pleased to explain the Emission Con- there has been no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your
trol System Warranty on your 1996 and later utility or lawn and gar- ULGE engine.
den equipment (ULGE) engine. In California, new ULGE engines Your emission control system includes parts such as the carburetor,
produced on or after August 1, 1995 must be designed, built and air cleaner, ignition system, muffler and catalytic converter. Also in-
equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. Else- cluded may be connectors and other emission related assemblies.
where in the United States, new non-road, spark-ignition engines Where a warrantable condition exists, B&S will repair your ULGE en-
certified for model year 1997 and later, must meet similar standards gine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and labor.
set forth by the U.S. EPA. B&S must warrant the emission control
system on your engine for the periods of time listed below, provided
Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage
ULGE engines are warranted relative to emission control parts de- any covered part on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired
fects for a period of two years, subject to provisions set forth below. If or replaced by B&S.
Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities
As the ULGE engine owner, you are responsible for the performance You are responsible for presenting your ULGE engine to an Autho-
of the required maintenance listed in your Operator/Owner Manual. rized B&S Service Dealer as soon as a problem exists. The undis-
B&S recommends that you retain all your receipts covering mainte- puted warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount
nance on your ULGE engine, but B&S cannot deny warranty solely of time, not to exceed 30 days.
for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and re-
all scheduled maintenance. sponsibilities, you should contact a B&S Service Representative at
As the ULGE engine owner, you should however be aware that B&S 1-414-259-5262.
may deny you warranty coverage if your ULGE engine or a part has The emission warranty is a defects warranty. Defects are judged on
failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved normal engine performance. The warranty is not related to an in-use
modifications. 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 Operator/Owner Manual.
1. Warranted Parts 3. No Charge
Coverage under this warranty extends only to the parts listed be- Repair or replacement of any Warranted Part will be performed
low (the emission control systems parts) to the extent these at no charge to the owner, including diagnostic labor which leads
parts were present on the engine purchased. to the determination that a Warranted Part is defective, if the
a. Fuel Metering System diagnostic work is performed at an Authorized B&S Service
Dealer. For emissions warranty service contact your nearest Au-
• Cold start enrichment system (soft choke) thorized B&S Service Dealer as listed in the “Yellow Pages” un-
• Carburetor and internal parts der “Engines, Gasoline,” “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mowers,”
• Fuel Pump or similar category.
4. Claims and Coverage Exclusions
b. Air Induction System
Warranty claims shall be filed in accordance with the provisions
• Air cleaner of the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. Warranty coverage shall be
• Intake manifold excluded for failures of Warranted Parts which are not original
c. Ignition System B&S parts or because of abuse, neglect or improper mainte-
nance as set forth in the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. B&S is not
• Spark plug(s) liable to 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 replacement as
required maintenance or which is scheduled only for regular in-
• Exhaust manifold
spection to the effect of “repair or replace as necessary” shall be
• Air injection system or pulse valve warranted as to defects for the warranty period. Any Warranted
e. Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems Part which is scheduled for replacement as required mainte-
• Vacuum, temperature, position, time sensitive valves nance shall be warranted as to defects only for the period of time
and switches up to the first scheduled replacement for that part. Any replace-
ment part that is equivalent in performance and durability may
• Connectors and assemblies be used in the performance of any maintenance or repairs. The
2. Length of Coverage owner is responsible for the performance of all required mainte-
B&S warrants to the initial owner and each subsequent purchaser nance, as defined in the B&S Operator/Owner Manual.
that the Warranted Parts shall be free from defects in materials 6. Consequential Coverage
and workmanship which caused the failure of the Warranted Coverage hereunder shall extend to the failure of any engine
Parts for a period of two years from the date the engine is deliv- components caused by the failure of any Warranted Part still un-
ered to a retail purchaser. der 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.
10
About your engine warranty: (see back cover for statement of LIMITED WARRANTY).

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

Briggs & Stratton Engines Are Made Under One Or More Of The Following Patents: Design D-247,177 (Other Patents Pending)
5,642,701 5,320,795 5,197,425 5,105,331 5,009,208 4,875,448 4,522,080 DES. 309,458
5,606,948 5,271,363 5,197,422 5,086,890 4,996,956 4,819,593 4,520,288 DES. 309,457
5,548,955 5,269,713 5,191,864 5,070,829 4,995,357 4,719,682 4,453,507 DES. 308,872
5,546,901 5,265,700 5,188,069 5,058,544 4,977,879 4,694,792 4,430,984 DES. 308,871
5,503,125 5,243,878 5,186,142 5,040,644 4,971,219 4,633,556 4,355,253
5,497,679 5,235,943 5,138,996 5,040,503 4,895,119 4,630,498 4,270,509

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.
11
 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE OWNER WARRANTY POLICY
effective July 1, 1998

Replaces all undated Warranties and all Warranties

dated before July 1, 1998

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 effective 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. IM-
PLIED 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 dam-
ages, 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 COMMERCIAL CONSUMER COMMERCIAL
USE* USE* USE* USE*
All Vanguard engines. 2 year – engine } / Lifetime** – Magnetron ignition
All Diamond Plus, Industrial Plus, I/C
2 year 1 year 2 year } 1 year
engines and sleeve bore Intek series.
Quantum and Diamond Power. 2 year 90 days {2 year { } 90 days
All standard engines and Kool Bore Intek series
installed on lawn mowers, riders, edgers,
2 year 90 days 1 year 90 days
chippers, shredders, tillers, fun carts, and all
Sno/Gard engines.
All other standard engines and Classic series. 1 year 90 days 1 year 90 days

* For purposes of this warranty policy, “consumer use” means personal residential household use by the original 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.
Engines used in competitive racing or on commercial or rental tracks are not warrantied.

** Lifetime limited warranty of the Magnetron ignition covers parts and labor for the first five (5) years from the date of purchase;
thereafter only parts. “Lifetime” means lifetime of the engine in the hands of the original purchaser.

{ 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.
12