Troubleshooting - Briggs & Stratton L824E Operator's Manual

Maintenance Chart
First 5 Hours
Change oil

Every 8 Hours or Daily
Check engine oil level

Every 50 Hours or Annually
Change engine oil

Check muffler and muffler guard

Annually
Replace spark plug

Check valve clearance *

* Not required unless engine performance problems are noted.
Carburetor Adjustment
Never make adjustments to the carburetor. The carburetor was set at the factory to
operate efficiently under most conditions. However, if adjustments are required, see any
Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer for service.
NOTICE: The manufacturer of the equipment on which this engine is installed specifies
the top speed at which the engine will be operated. Do not exceed this speed.
How To Replace The Spark Plug - Figure 7
Check the gap (A, Figure 7) 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.
Inspect Muffler And Spark Arrester - Figure 8
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 area and cylinder area. Inspect the muffler (A,
Figure 8) for cracks, corrosion, or other damage. Remove the spark arrester (B), 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.
en
Air Filter
This engine is not equipped with an air filter. DO NOT use this engine for anything
other than snow removal.
How To Change The Oil - Figure 9
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 (A) and keep it away
from the spark plug (Figure 12).
2. Remove the oil drain cap (E, Figure 9, 10). Drain the oil into an approved receptacle.
3. After the oil has drained, install and tighten the oil drain cap.
Add oil
Place engine level.

Clean the oil fill area of any debris.

See the Specifications section for oil capacity.

Models with short dipstick
1. Remove the dipstick (F, Figure 10) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (E). Fill to point of overflowing.
3. Install the dipstick but do not screw in. Remove and check the oil level. Oil level
should be at the FULL mark (G) on the dipstick.
4. Install and tighten the dipstick.
Models with extended dipstick
1. Remove the dipstick (F, Figure 11) and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Pour the oil slowly into the engine oil fill (E). Do not overfill. After adding oil, wait
one minute and then recheck the oil level.
3. Install and tighten the dipstick.
4. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the full indicator
(G) on the dipstick.
5. Install and tighten the dipstick.
Storage
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
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.
For engines equipped with a FRESH START
®
START available in a drip concentrate cartridge.
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

Need Assistance? Go to BRIGGSandSTRATTON.COM or call 1-800-233-3723.
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® fuel cap, use Briggs & Stratton FRESH
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