Service Spark Plug; Service Air Filter; Change Engine Oil - Briggs & Stratton 310000 Operator's Manual

• Replace air filter
• Replace spark plugs
• 1
Service cooling system
1
In dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present, clean more often.
2
Only engines without oil filter.
3
Engines without oil filter or with standard black oil filter (see Specifications page
for part number).
4
Engines with high-efficiency yellow or orange oil filter (see Specifications page
for part number).
5
Not required unless engine performance problems are noted.

Service Spark Plug

See Figure: 6
Check the gap (A, Figure 6) with a wire gauge (B). If necessary, reset the gap. Install and
tighten the spark plug to the recommended torque. For gap setting or torque, see the
Specifications section.
NOTE: In some areas, local law requires using a resistor spark plug to suppress ignition
signals. If this engine was originally equipped with a resistor spark plug, use the same type
for replacement.
Service Exhaust System
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.
• It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate
the engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the
exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in Section 4442,
maintained in effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have
similar laws. Contact the original equipment manufacturer, retailer, or dealer to obtain
a spark arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this engine.
Remove accumulated debris from muffler and cylinder area. Inspect the muffler for cracks,
corrosion, or other damage. Remove the deflector or the spark arrester, if equipped, and
inspect for damage or carbon blockage. If damage is found, install replacement parts before
operating.
WARNING
Replacement parts must be of the same design and installed in the same position as
the original parts. Other parts may not perform as well, may damage the unit, and may
result in injury.

Change Engine Oil

See Figure: 7, 8, 9, 10
Used oil is a hazardous waste product and must be disposed of properly. Do not discard
with household waste. Check with your local authorities, service center, or dealer for safe
disposal/recycling facilities.
Remove Oil
1. With engine off but still warm, disconnect the spark plug wire (D, Figure 7) and keep
it away from the spark plug (E).
2. Remove the dipstick (A, Figure 8).
Oil Drain Plug, if equipped
1. Remove the oil drain plug (F, Figure 9). Drain the oil into an approved container.
NOTE: Any of the oil drain plugs (G, Figure 9) may be installed in the engine.
8
2. After the oil has drained, install and tighten the oil drain plug (F, Figure 9).
Quick Oil Drain, if equipped
1. Disconnect the quick oil drain hose (H, Figure 10) from the side of the engine.
2. Turn and remove the oil drain cap (I, Figure 10). Carefully lower the quick oil drain
(H) into an approved container (J).
3. After the oil has drained, install the quick oil drain cap (I, Figure 10). Attach the quick
oil drain hose (H) to the side of the engine.
Change Oil Filter, if equipped
Some models are equipped with an oil filter. For replacement intervals, see the
Maintenance Schedule.
1. Drain the oil from the engine. See Remove Oil section.
2. Remove the oil filter (K, Figure 8) and dispose of properly.
3. Before you install the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the oil filter gasket with fresh,
clean oil.
4. Install the oil filter by hand until the gasket contacts the oil filter adapter, then tighten
the oil filter 1/2 to 3/4 turns.
Add oil. See Add Oil section.
5.
6. Start and run the engine. As the engine warms up, check for oil leaks.
7. Stop the engine and check the oil level. Correct oil level is at the top of the full indicator
(B, Figure 8) on the dipstick.
Add Oil
• Make sure the engine is level.
• Clean the oil fill area of any debris.
• See the Specifications section for oil capacity.
1. Remove the dipstick (A, Figure 8) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Slowly pour oil into the engine oil fill (C, Figure 8). Do not overfill. After adding oil,
wait one minute and then check the oil level.
NOTE: Do not add oil at the quick oil drain (H, Figure 10), if equipped.
3. Install and tighten the dipstick (A, Figure 8).
4. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Correct oil level is at the top of the full
indicator (B, Figure 8) on the dipstick.
5. Reinstall and tighten the dipstick (A, Figure 8).
6. Connect the spark plug wire (D, Figure 7) to the spark plug (E).

Service Air Filter

See Figure: 11, 12
WARNING
Gaseous vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
• Never start and run the engine with the air cleaner assembly (if equipped) or the air
filter (if equipped) removed.
NOTICE
Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean the filter. Pressurized air can
damage the filter and solvents will dissolve the filter.
See the Maintenance Schedule for service requirements.
Various models use either a foam or a paper filter. Some models may also have an optional
pre-cleaner that can be washed and reused. Compare the illustrations in this manual with
the type installed on your engine and service as follows.
Paper Air Filter
1. Pull up on the cover handle (A, Figure 11). Rotate the cover handle toward the engine
and then remove the cover (B).
2. Remove the pre-cleaner (C, Figure 11), if equipped, and the filter (D).
3. To loosen debris, gently tap the filter (D, Figure 11) on a hard surface. If the filter is
excessively dirty, replace with a new filter.
4. Wash the pre-cleaner (C, Figure 11) in liquid detergent and water. Allow the
pre-cleaner (C) to thoroughly air dry. Do not oil the pre-cleaner.
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