Features And Controls; Operation - Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 540000 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, Cyclonic
D. Air Cleaner, Low Profile
E. Dipstick
F. Oil Fill
G. Oil Filter
H. Oil Drain Plug
I. Oil Pressure Sensor
J. Finger Guard / Rotating Screen
K. Electric Starter
L. Starter Solenoid
M. Regulator/Rectifier
N. LPG/NG Mixer
O. Oil Cooler

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.
°F
* 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.

1. Remove the dipstick (A) and wipe with a clean cloth (Figure 2).
2. Insert and tighten the dipstick.
3. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator
(B) on the dipstick.
4. If low, add 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.
Oil Pressure
If the oil pressure is too low, a pressure switch (if equipped) will either stop the engine or
activate a warning device on the equipment. If this occurs, stop the engine and check the
oil level with the dipstick.
If the oil level is below the ADD mark, add oil until it reaches the FULL mark. Start the
engine and check for proper pressure before continuing to operate.
If the oil level is between the ADD and FULL marks, do not start the engine. Contact an
Authorized Briggs & Stratton Dealer to have the oil pressure problem corrected.
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Fuel Recommendations
Do not operate the equipment if the "fuel lock-off" valve is missing or inoperative.

Fuel must meet these requirements:
Use clean, dry fuel, free of moisture or any particulate material. Using fuels outside

the following recommended values may cause performance problems.
In engines set up to run on LPG, commercial grade HD5 LPG is recommended.

Recommended fuel composition is fuel with a minimum fuel energy of 2500 BTU's/ft
with maximum propylene content of 5% and butane and heavier gas content of 2.5%
and minimum propane content of 90%.
NG or LPG engines are certified to operate on natural or liquid propane gas. The
emissions control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modifications).
WARNING:
with an automatic safety gas "fuel lock-off" valve. Do not operate the equipment if the
"fuel lock-off" valve is missing or inoperative.
How To Add Fuel
When Adding Fuel
Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.

°C
Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks.

Replace if necessary.
For information on refueling natural or LP gas engines, read the operating instructions
supplied by the equipment manufacturer.
How To Start The Engine - Figure 3
When Starting Engine
Ensure that spark plug, muffler, and air cleaner (if equipped) are in place and

secured.
Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause nausea, fainting or death.
Start and run engine outdoors.

Do not start or run engine in enclosed area, even if doors or windows are open.

NOTICE: This engine was shipped from Briggs & Stratton without oil. Before you start
the engine, make sure you add oil according to the instructions in this manual. If you
start the engine without oil, it will be damaged beyond repair and will not be covered
under warranty.
Note: Some engines and equipment have remote controls. See the equipment manual
for location and operation of remote controls.
1. Check the oil level. See the How To Check/Add Oil section.
2. Make sure equipment drive controls, if equipped, are disengaged.
3. Turn the fuel shut-off valve (A), if equipped, to the on position (Figure 3).
4. Move the throttle control (B) to the fast
position.
5. Turn the electric start switch (C) to the on/start position (Figure 3).
WARNING
Missing or inoperative "fuel lock-off" valve can cause a fire or
explosion.
The equipment on which this engine is mounted is equipped
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
WARNING
position. Operate the engine in the fast
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