View Full Version : Craftsman riding mower not completely cranking
matt1972
Mar 24, 2010, 02:32 PM
Hey guys,
I have a 18.5 B&S in my 42" craftsman riding mower I have replaced the starter twice the battery once, the selinoid once and I can't getthe engine to crank a full compression stroke it sounds like it wants to but the starter can't give it enough power to crank? What am I doing wrong??
KISS
Mar 24, 2010, 02:33 PM
Adjust the valve clearance.
matt1972
Mar 24, 2010, 02:36 PM
How would that be done? I keep thinking that the starter or battery can't give it enough power?
matt1972
Mar 24, 2010, 02:38 PM
Also I have about 140psi at tdc
KISS
Mar 24, 2010, 04:05 PM
You need to find the specs for your engine, for that provide the model, type and code from the blower housing.
Specs might be something like "0.005" Intake, 0.006" exhaust 1/4" btdc" - not your actual spec.
How this might be done is use a dial indicator in the spark plug hole and find when the piston is 1/4" before Top Dead Center on the compression stroke. The valves are then adjusted for the specified clearance. Remember, you will have intake, compression, power and exhaust.
A car is usually done differently. Usually you locate TDC with the mechanical marks on the harmonic balancer. 1/2 the valves will be loose and the other's tight. You adjust the clearance for the loose I & E valves and then you rotate the balancer 1 turn and do the others.