Features And Controls; Operation; Fuel Recommendations; Oil Recommendations - Briggs & Stratton 120000 Operator's Manual

Features and Controls

Compare the illustration with your engine to familiarize
yourself with the location of various features and controls.
See Figure 1.
A. Spark Plug
B. Primer
C. Fuel Tank and Cap
D. Air Cleaner
E. Starter Rope Handle
F. Oil Dipstick
G. Oil Drain Plug
H. Engine Identification Numbers
I. Muffler
Muffler Guard (if equipped)
Spark Arrester (if equipped)

Operation

Oil Capacity
Oil Capacity (see Specifications page)

Oil Recommendations

• Do not use special additives.
• Choose a viscosity from the following chart.
SAE 30 405 F and higher (55 C and higher)
is good for all purpose use above 40°F, use below 40°F
will cause hard starting.
10W-30 0 to 1005 F (−18 to 385 C)
is better for varying temperature conditions. This grade of
oil improves cold weather starting, but may increase oil
consumption at 80°F (27°C) or higher*. Check oil level
frequently at higher temperatures.
Synthetic 5W-30 −20 to 1205 F (−30 to 405 C)
provides the best protection at all temperatures as well as
improved starting with less oil consumption.
5W-30 405 F and below (55 C and below)
is recommended for winter use, and works best in cold
conditions.
How To Check/Add Oil
• Place engine level.
• Clean the oil fill area of any debris.
1. Remove the dipstick (B, Figure 2) and wipe with a clean
cloth.
2. Insert and tighten the dipstick.
en
3. Again remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Make
sure the oil is at the FULL mark (C) on the dipstick.
4. When adding oil, pour slowly into the oil fill tube (D). DO
NOT OVERFILL. Wait one minute and then recheck the
oil level.
5. Replace and tighten the dipstick.

Fuel Recommendations

This engine is certified to operate on gasoline. The
emissions control system for this engine is EM (Engine
Modifications).
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 (gasohol) or up to
15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
CAUTION
Do not use unapproved gasoline such as E85. Do not
mix oil in gasoline, or modify engine to run on alternate
fuels. This 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 remain
emissions compliant, 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 the high altitude kit is not recommended.
How To Add Fuel
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns
or death.
• Turn engine off and let engine cool at least 2 minutes
before removing the gas cap.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting
engine.
1. Remove the gas cap (C, Figure 1). To allow for fuel
expansion, fill the fuel tank to approximately 1.5 inches
below the top of the fuel tank opening.
2. Install the gas cap.
WARNING
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