Troubleshooting - Briggs & Stratton 540000 Operator's Manual

NOTICE: Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean the filter. Pressurized air can
damage the filter and solvents will dissolve the filter.
The air filter system uses either a cyclonic air filter or a low-profile air filter. See the
Maintenance Chart for service requirements.
Cyclonic Air Filter System
1. Open the latches (A) and remove the cover (B). See Figure 8.
2. Remove the air filter (C).
3. To loosen debris, gently tap the air filter on a hard surface. If the air filter is
excessively dirty, replace with a new air filter.
4. The cyclonic air filter system also has a safety filter (D) (if equipped). See the
Maintenance Chart for service requirements. To remove, carefully pull the safety
filter away from air cleaner body (E) and discard. Make sure that dirt or debris do not
enter the engine.
5. Install the new safety filter in the air cleaner body.
6. Install the air filter over the safety filter.
7. Install the cover and close the latches.
Low-Profile Air Filter System
1. Remove the knob (F) and the cover (G). See Figure 9.
2. Remove the nut (H) and the retainer (J).
3. Remove the air filter (K).
4. Remove the pre-cleaner (L), if equipped, from the air filter.
5. To loosen debris, gently tap the air filter on a hard surface. If the air filter is
excessively dirty, replace with a new air filter.
6. Wash the pre-cleaner in liquid detergent and water. Then allow it to thoroughly air
dry. Do not oil the pre-cleaner.
7. Assemble the dry pre-cleaner to the air filter.
8. Install the air filter and secure with retainer and nut.
9. Install the cover and secure with knob.
How To Clean The Air Cooling System - Figure 11
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler,
become extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.

Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area.

NOTICE: Do not use water to clean the engine. Water could contaminate the fuel
system. Use a brush or dry cloth to clean the engine.
This is an air cooled engine. Dirt or debris can restrict air flow and cause the engine to
overheat, resulting in poor performance and reduced engine life.
Use a brush or dry cloth to remove debris from the air intake grille (A, Figure 11). Keep
linkage, springs and controls (B) clean. Keep the area around and behind the muffler (C)
free of any combustible debris. Make sure that the oil cooler fins (D) are free of dirt and
debris.
Clean the area under the panel (E, Figure 12). Loosen the two screws (F) until you hear
a click. Remove the panel and clean the area of dirt and debris. Make sure the underside
of the panel is also clean. Install the panel and tighten the screws until you hear a click.
10
How To Replace The Fuel Filter - Figure 10
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
Keep fuel 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.
Before replacing the fuel filter, drain the fuel tank or close the fuel shut-off valve.

Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the same position as the

original parts.
If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.

1. Before replacing the fuel filter (A, Figure 10), if equipped, drain the fuel tank or close
the fuel shut-off valve. Otherwise, fuel can leak out and cause a fire or explosion.
2. Use pliers to squeeze tabs (B) on the clamps (C), then slide the clamps away from
the fuel filter. Twist and pull the fuel lines (D) off of the fuel filter.
3. Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.
4. Replace the fuel filter with an original equipment replacement filter.
5. Secure the fuel lines with the clamps as shown.
Storage
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
12
When Storing Fuel Or Equipment With Fuel In Tank
Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or other appliances that have

pilot lights or other ignition sources because they can ignite fuel vapors.
Fuel System
Fuel can become stale when stored over 30 days. Stale fuel causes acid and gum
deposits to form in the fuel system or on essential carburetor parts. To keep fuel fresh,
use Briggs & Stratton Advanced Formula Fuel Treatment & Stabilizer, available
wherever Briggs & Stratton genuine service parts are sold.
There is no need to drain gasoline from the engine if a fuel stabilizer is added according
to instructions. Run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel
system before storage.
If gasoline in the engine has not been treated with a fuel stabilizer, it must be drained into
an approved container. Run the engine until it stops from lack of fuel. The use of a fuel
stabilizer in the storage container is recommended to maintain freshness.
Engine Oil
While the engine is still warm, change the engine oil.

Troubleshooting

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