Features And Controls; Operation - Briggs & Stratton I 950 Series Operator's Manual

Features and Controls

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Compare the illustration with your engine to familiarize yourself with the location of
various features and controls.
A. Engine Identification
Model Type Code
B. Spark Plug
C. Air Cleaner
D. Choke
E. Starter Cord Handle
F. Finger Guard
G. Throttle Control (optional)
H. Stop Switch (optional)
I. Fuel Tank and Cap (optional)
J. Oil Drain Plug
K. Dipstick
L. Muffler
Muffler Guard
Spark Arrester (optional)
Muffler Deflector (optional)
M. Fuel Shutoff

Operation

Oil capacity (see the Specifications section)
Oil Recommendations
We recommend the use of Briggs & Stratton Warranty Certified oils for best
performance. Other high-quality detergent oils are acceptable if classified for service SF,
SG, SH, SJ or higher. Do not use special additives.
Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for the engine. Use the chart to
select the best viscosity for the outdoor temperature range expected.
* Below 40°F (4°C) the use of SAE 30 will result in hard starting.
** Above 80°F (27°C) the use of 10W-30 may cause increased oil consumption. Check
oil level more frequently.
How To Check/Add Oil - Figure 2
Before adding or checking the oil
Place engine level.

Clean the oil fill area of any debris.

Models with short dipstick (Figure 2)
1. Remove the dipstick (A) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Insert the dipstick. Do not turn or tighten.
3. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator
(B) on the dipstick.
4. To add oil, pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (C). Fill to point of overflowing.
5. Replace and tighten the dipstick.
Models with extended dipstick (Figure 4)
1. Remove the dipstick (A) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Insert and tighten the dipstick.
en
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3. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator
(B) on the dipstick.
4. To add oil, pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (C). Do not overfill. After adding
oil, wait one minute and then recheck the oil level.
5. Replace and tighten the dipstick.
Low Oil Protection System (if equipped)
Some engines are equipped with a low oil sensor. If the oil is low, the sensor will either
activate a warning light or stop the engine. Stop the engine and follow these steps before
restarting the engine.
Make sure the engine is level.

Check the oil level. See the How To Check/Add Oil section.

If the oil level is low, add the proper amount of oil. Start the engine and make sure

the warning light (if equipped) is not activated.
If the oil level is not low, do not start the engine. Contact an Authorized Briggs &

Stratton Dealer to have the the oil problem corrected.
Fuel Recommendations
Fuel must meet these requirements:
Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline.

A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON). High altitude use, see below.

Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol is acceptable.

CAUTION: Do not use unapproved gasolines, such as E15 and E85. Do not mix oil in
gasoline or modify the engine to run on alternate fuels. Use of unapproved fuels will
damage the engine components and void the engine warranty.
To protect the fuel system from gum formation, mix a fuel stabilizer into the fuel. See
Storage. All fuel is not the same. If starting or performance problems occur, change fuel
providers or change brands. This engine is certified to operate on gasoline. The
emissions control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modifications).
High Altitude
At altitudes over 5,000 feet (1524 meters), a minimum 85 octane/85 AKI (89 RON)
gasoline is acceptable. To maintain performance, high altitude adjustment is required.
Operation without this adjustment will cause decreased performance, increased fuel
consumption, and increased emissions. See an authorized Briggs & Stratton Dealer for
high altitude adjustment information.
Operation of the engine at altitudes below 2,500 feet (762 meters) with high altitude
adjustment is not recommended.
How To Add Fuel - Figure 3
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Adding Fuel
Turn engine off and let engine cool at least 2 minutes before removing the fuel

cap.
Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.

Do not overfill fuel tank. To allow for expansion of the fuel, do not fill above the

bottom of the fuel tank neck.
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
If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting engine.

1. Clean the fuel cap area of dirt and debris. Remove the fuel cap (A) (Figure 3).
2. Fill the fuel tank (B) with fuel. To allow for expansion of the fuel, do not fill above the
bottom of the fuel tank neck (C).
3. Reinstall the fuel cap.
How To Start The Engine - Figure 5
WARNING
Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and arm
toward engine faster than you can let go.
Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains could result.
When starting engine, pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then

pull rapidly to avoid kickback.
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