Briggs & Stratton 287700 Series Installation instructions

Copyright 1998 by Briggs & Stratton Corporation FORM NO. 273683-7/98
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
www.briggsandstratton.com
 
 
28N700, 287700,
28P700, 28Q700, 28S700, 28U700,
310700, 311700, 312700, 313700
For future reference, write your engine Model/Type/Code here. Model Type Code
Forfuturereference,writeyour engine DateofPurchasehere.
Before starting this engine, read and understand
this
Operator/Owner Manual . Failure to follow instructions
in this manual could result in serious injury or death.
Table of Contents
In the Interest of Safety 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil & Fuel Recommendations 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting & Stopping 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustments 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Schedule 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service, Storage & Specifications 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emission System Warranty 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
About Engine Warranty 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Warranty 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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2
Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any nonroad en-
gine repair establishment or individual. However, to obtain no charge repairs under the terms and provisions of the
Briggs & Stratton warranty statement,any service or emission control partrepair or replacement must beperformed by a
factory authorized dealer.
In the Interest of Safety
Thissafetyalertsymbol indicatesthat thismessage
involves personal safety. Words danger, warning
and caution indicate degree of hazard. Death,
personal injury and/or property damage may occur
unless instructions are followed carefully.
You are not ready to operate this engine if you
have not read and understood the following
safetyitems.Read thisentireowner’smanualand
the operating instructions of the equipment this
engine powers.
The Briggs & Stratton engine you bought with your equipment is made of the finest material in a state-of-the-art manufacturing
facility. Please understand that Briggs & Stratton sells engines to original equipment manufacturers. It also sells to others in the
distributionchainwhomayselltotheultimateconsumer,anequipmentmanufacturer,anotherdistributororadealer.Asaresult,
Briggs & Stratton does not necessarily know the application on which the engine will be placed. For that reason, you should
carefully read and understand the operating instructions of the equipment on which your engine is placed before you operate it.
You should also understand that there are equipment applications for which Briggs & Stratton does not approve the use of its
engines. Briggs & Stratton engines are not to be used on vehicles with less than 4 wheels. They include motor bikes, aircraft
productsandAllTerrainVehicles.Moreover,Briggs& Strattondoes notapproveofitsengines beingusedincompetitiveevents.
F0RTHATREASON,BRIGGS&STRATTONENGINESARENOTAUTHORIZEDFORANYOFTHESEAPPLICATIONS.Fail-
ure to follow this warning could result in death, serious injury (including paralysis) or property damage.
DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area.
(Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly poison.)
DO NOT remove fuel tank cap nor fill fuel tank while
engineishotorrunning.DONOTrefuelindoorsorin
an unventilated area. (Allow engine to cool 2 min-
utes before refueling.)
DO NOT place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts.
DO NOT store, spill, or use gasoline near an open flame, nor
near an appliance like a stove, furnace, or water heater that
uses a pilot light or can create a spark.
DO NOT refuel indoors or in an unventilated area.
DO NOT operate or tip engine/equipment at such a severe
angle that causes gasoline spillage.
DO NOT operate engine if gasoline is spilled or when smell of
gasoline is present or other explosive conditions exist. (Move
equipmentawayfromspill and avoid any ignition untilgasoline
has evaporated.)
DO NOT transport engine with fuel in tank or fuel shut-off
valve open.
DONOTchokecarburetortostopengine,especiallyinanen-
closedvehicle.(Wheneverpossible,graduallyreduceengine
speed before stopping.)
DO NOT tamper with governor springs, links or other parts to
increaseenginespeed. (Run engine atspeedsetforequipment
manufacturer.)
DO NOT check for spark with spark plug removed. (Use an
approved tester.)
DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed. (If engine is
flooded, place throttle in FAST and crank until engine starts.)
DO NOT strike flywheel with a hammer or hard object as this
maycauseflywheeltoshatterinoperation.(Toremoveflywheel,
use Briggs & Stratton approved tools only.)
DONOToperateenginewithoutamuffler.(Inspectperiodically
and replace if worn or leaking. If engine is equipped with muf-
flerdeflector,inspectperiodicallyandreplace ifnecessary.Re-
placement parts must be same as on original equipment.)
DO NOT operate engine with an accumulation of grass,
leaves or other combustible material in muffler area.
DO NOT use this engine on any forest covered, brush cov-
ered, or grass covered unimproved land unless a spark ar-
resterisinstalledonmuffler.Thesparkarrestermustbemain-
tained in working order by the owner and/or operator. In the
Stateof California theaboveis requiredbylaw(Section 4442
of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may
have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
DO NOT touch hot muffler, cylinder, or fins which can cause
burns.
DO NOT start engine with air cleaner or air cleaner cover re-
moved (or cover over carburetor air intake, if Sno/Gard engine).
DO NOT attempt to start engine with cutting blade loose or re-
moved.(Blade mustbetight, otherwiseakickbackmayoccur.)
✔PULL starter cord slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull
cordrapidlytoavoidkickbackandpreventhandorarminjury.
✔PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING by removing spark
plug wire from spark plug when servicing engine or equip-
ment. Disconnect negative wire from battery terminal if
equipped with electric starting system.
✔REMOVE blower housing periodically and clean engine.
Keep cylinder fins and governor parts free of dirt, grass
and other debris which can affect engine speed.
✔USE fresh gasoline. Stale fuel can gum carburetor and
cause leakage.
✔CHECK fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or
leaks. Replace if necessary.
✔Use only Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts or their
equivalent. The use of replacement parts which are
not of equivalent quality may damage the engine.

The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
Safety Alert - Read
Owner’s Manual
International
Symbols Fuel
On Off Stop Choke
Fuel
Shutoff

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3
Oil & Fuel Recommendations
Oil
This engine is shipped from Briggs & Stratton without oil.
Before starting engine, check oil level as shown below.
Changeand add oil according to chart below. Do notover-fill.
Use a high quality detergent oil classified “For Service SF,
SG, SH,” such as Briggs & Stratton “warranty certified” SAE
30oil,Part No. 100005. Use no special additives withrecom-
mended oils. Do not mix oil with gasoline.
SAE Viscosity Grades
°C -30
STARTING TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
°F-20 0 20 40 60 80 100
-20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
*
**
32
*Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines. The use of
multi-viscosity oil such as (10W-30, etc.) in ambient temperatures
above40°F(4°C)will resultinhigherthannormaloil consumption.
If multi-viscosity oil is used, check the oil level more frequently to
prevent any possible engine damage due to lack of lubrication.
** Use of SAE 30 oil below 40°F (4°C) will result in hard starting
and possible engine damage due to inadequate lubrication.
Fuel
Use clean, fresh, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum
of85octane.Donotmixoilwithgasoline.Freshfuelprevents
gum from forming in fuel system or on essential carburetor
parts. Purchase fuel in quantity that can be used within 30
days. In countries other than the U.S.A., leaded gasoline may
beused ifcommerciallyavailableandunleaded isunavailable.
WerecommendtheuseofBriggs&StrattonGasolineAdditive.
(See your Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer for
Part No. 5041 or the single-use pouch.) See storage instruc-
tions, on page 9.
Note: Some fuels, called oxygenated or reformulated
gasolines, are gasolines blended with alcohols or ethers.
Excessive amounts of these blends can damage the fuel
system or cause performance problems. Do not use gasoline
which contains Methanol. If any undesirable operating
symptoms occur, use gasoline with a lower percentage of
alcohol or ether.
Do not over-fill fuel tank.
Allow space for fuel expansion.
Check oil level before starting engine.
Add oil as shown below.
Oil capacity is about 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4 liter).
Oil capacity is about 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4 liters) if
engine is not equipped with oil filter.
Oil capacity is about 1-3/4 quarts (56 ounces or 1.7 liters) if
engine is equipped with oil filter.
After filling with or changing oil, start and run engine at idle for
30 seconds. Shut engine off. Wait 30 seconds and check oil
level. Addoil, if required,to bring level to Full markondipstick.
Place engine level.
Clean around oil fill. Remove dipstick. Wipe with clean cloth. Tighten dipstick. Remove & check.
Tighten dipstick be-
fore starting engine.
Oil level should
be at FULL mark. If oil is required, add
slowly. Recheck level.
7. Air cleaner
8. In-line fuel filter,
if equipped
9. Carburetor
10. Oil filter, if equipped
11. Spark plug wire
12. Engine Model Type Code
xxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxx
1. Oil drain
2. Oil fill/Dipstick
3. Rotating screen
4. Blower housing
5. Muffler
6. 12V electric starter
34
5
6
2
1
11
9
7
8
12
10

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4
Starting & Stopping
Choke operation/engine warm-up
Thisengineisalowemissions engine which operates differently
from previously built engines. It is designed for maximum
performance and life if operated with the choke fully open (in
RUN)andthrottlefullyopen(inFAST).Toopenthechokefully
requires an engine warm-up period of several seconds to
several minutes, depending on the temperature.
After starting engine, first open the choke (toward RUN) until
theenginejust begins torunsmoothly. Thenopenthechoke in
small steps, allowing the engine to accept small changes in
speed and load, until the choke is fully open (in RUN).
During engine warm-up, the equipment can be operated.
To obtain best starting results
Store and fuel lawn mower in level position.
Start lawn mower on hard surface or over previously cut grass.
Donotuseapressurizedstartingfluid.Startingfluidis
flammable. Severe engine damage or fire may occur.
Periodically remove grass build-up under mower
deck.Removesparkplugwirebeforeremovinggrass.
When tipping lawn mower to remove grass, keep
spark plug side of engine up.
A warm engine requires less choking than a cold engine.
Starting in cold weather:
Use the correct oil for the starting temperature expected.
De-clutch all possible external loads.
Set speed control at part throttle position.
Awarmbatteryhasmorestartingcapacitythanacoldbattery.
Do not use gasoline left over from summer. Use fresh winter
grade gasoline which has higher volatility to improve starting.
Before starting engine
Move choke control to CHOKE or START position.
If equipment has separate choke and throttle controls, move
throttle control to FAST position.
Note: Choke must fully close. If engine does not start, see
control adjustments on page 5.
Typical choke and throttle controls
Openfuelshut-offvalve,if
equipped.
1/4 TURN
Typical fuel shut-off
Start engine
Always keep hands and feet clear of mower blade or
other rotating machinery.
Electric starter
Turn key to START or press button. Repeat if necessary with
throttle control in FAST position. Operate engine in FAST
position.
Note: Ifequipmentmanufacturerhassuppliedbattery,chargeit
beforetryingtostartengine,asequipment manufacturerrecom-
mends. Use short starting cycles (15 secs. per min.) to prolong
starter life. Extended cranking can damage starter motor.
Typical electric starter
PRESS
BUTTON
Rewind starter (auxiliary), if equipped
Rewind starter
Ifyourengine is equipped
with an auxiliary rewind
starter,graspropehandle
asillustratedandpullslowlyuntil
resistance is felt. Then pull cord
rapidly to overcome compres-
sion, prevent kickback and start
engine.Repeatifnecessarywith
choke off and throttle control in
FAST position. Operate engine
in FAST position.
Stop engine
DonotmovechokecontroltoCHOKEpositiontostopengine.
Backfire or engine damage may occur.
Keep throttle control in FAST position. Turn key to OFF.
Alwaysremovekeyfromswitch,ifequipped,whenequipment
is not in use or left unattended.
Typical stop controls
Whenengine is transported,
close fuel shut-off valve (if
equipped) to prevent fuel
leakage.
Typical fuel shut-off
1/4 TURN

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5
Adjustments
Control adjustments
WIRE
Topreventaccidentalstarting,remove
and ground spark plug wire and dis-
connectbatteryatnegativeterminal,if
equipped, when adjusting controls.
Remote choke control:
Move choke control to CHOKE or START position. Choke
valve should be closed. To assure choke valve is closed,
loosen casing clamp screw and pull casing, wire and choke
lever in direction of arrow to end of travel. With choke control
in CHOKE or START position, tighten casing clamp screw.
Choke control adjustment
CASING CLAMP SCREW
To adjust throttle control:
WiththrottlecontrolinFASTposition,holeingovernorcontrol
lever (located just behind governor control plate) must align
with hole in governor control plate, as illustrated below. If it
does not, loosen casing clamp screw and then move gover-
nor control rack until it does. Tighten casing clamp screw.
Check stop switch
MovethrottlecontroltoSTOPposition,ifequipped.Governor
control lever must make good contact with stop switch.
Check operation of controls. Readjust if necessary.
Throttle control adjustment
HOLE IN
GOVERNOR
CONTROL
PLATE
GOVERNOR
CONTROL
LEVER
STOP
SWITCH
GOVERNOR
CONTROL
RACK
CASING
CLAMP
SCREW
Carburetor adjustments
The manufacturer of the equipment on which this
engine is installed specifies top speed at which the
engine will be operated. DO NOT EXCEED this
speed.
Differences in fuel, temperature, altitude or load may require
minor carburetor adjustment. Air cleaner and air cleaner cover
must be assembled to carburetor before starting engine.
The carburetor on this engine is low emission. It is equipped
withanidlemixturevalvewithalimiter(seeinset),whichallows
some adjustment, and an idle speed adjustment screw.
Adjustments
Start engine and warm up approximately 5 minutes before
adjusting.Withenginerunning,placethrottlecontrolinSLOW
position. Rotate carburetor throttle lever against the idle
speedscrewandholdit.Turnidlespeedscrewtoobtain1750
rpm.
Rotate idle mixture valve full travel clockwise and then
counterclockwise. Finally, position idle mixture valve in
middleoftravel. Check idle speed and re-adjust to 1750rpm,
if necessary.
Move throttle control to FAST position. Engine should
accelerate smoothly. If it does not, adjust idle mixture valve
counterclockwise 1/8 turn.
Carburetor adjustments
IDLE MIXTURE
VALVE
WITH LIMITER
IDLE SPEED
SCREW
CARBURETOR
THROTTLE
LEVER

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6
Maintenance
See Maintenance Schedule, page 8. Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.
Note that more frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions.
WIRE
Topreventaccidentalstarting,remove
and ground spark plug wire and dis-
connectbatteryatnegativeterminal,if
equipped, when adjusting controls.
Oil
Check oil level regularly.
Besurecorrectoillevelismaintained.Checkevery8hoursor
daily, before starting engine. See check oil level on page 3.
Change oil (Follow Maintenance Schedule.)
Change oil after first 5 hours of operation. Change oil while
engine is warm.
Remove drain plug and drain oil. Replace and tighten drain
plug. Remove dipstick and refill with new oil of recommended
grade (see chart, page 3). Start and run engine at idle for
30 seconds. Stop engine. Wait 30 seconds and re-check oil
level. If required, add oil to bring level to FULL mark on dipstick.
Oil drain
Typical
drain
plugs
PIPE
7/16”
HEX
5/16”
Oil fill
OIL DRAIN
PLUG TO REMOVE
Change oil filter, if equipped
(Follow Maintenance Schedule.)
Replace oil filter after every 100 hours of operation or every
season, whichever occurs first. Before installing new filter,
lightly oil filter gasket with fresh, clean engine oil. Screw filter
on by hand until gasket contacts oil filter adapter. Tighten 1/2
to 3/4 turn more. Start and run engine at idle to check for oil
leaks. Recheck oil level and add oil if required.
Oil filter
OIL FILTER
P/N SEE PAGE 8
Air cleaner
Dual element air cleaner
COVER
KNOB
COVER
CARTRIDGE
KNOB
CARTRIDGE &
PRE-CLEANER
5053
STUD
BASE
Note: Depending on engine Type Number, this engine may
not be equipped with a pre-cleaner.
1. Remove cover knob and cover.
2. Remove cartridge knob. Carefully lift pre-cleaner and
cartridge from base over stud.
3. Clean base carefully to prevent debris from entering
carburetor.
To service pre-cleaner, wash in liquid detergent and water.
Squeezedryinaclean cloth. Saturate in engine oil. Squeeze
inclean,absorbentclothtoremoveallEXCESSoil.Replaceif
very dirty or damaged.
Toservicecartridge, clean bytappinggently on aflatsurface.
Do not oil cartridge. Replace if very dirty or damaged.
Pre-cleaner Cartridge
PRE-CLEANER
272403

CARTRIDGE
496894
Note: Donotuse petroleum solvents,e.g.,kerosene,which will
cause the cartridge to deteriorate. Do not use pressurized air to
clean cartridge. Pressurized air can damage the cartridge.
4. Reassemble pre-cleaner on cartridge and place assembly
over stud on base. Tighten cartridge knob.
5. Replace cover and tighten cover knob securely.

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7
Maintenance
See Maintenance Schedule, page 8. Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.
Note that more frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions.
Keep engine and parts clean.
Do not clean with a forceful spray of water because water
could contaminate fuel system.
Rotating screen
With a brush or cloth,
remove grass, chaff or
debrisfromfingerguard
or rotating screen daily
(more often if needed)
to prevent engine dam-
age caused by over-
heating. Finger guard
CLEANCLEAN
Linkage, springs & controls
CLEAN
To assure smooth
operation,keepgover-
nor linkage, springs
and controls free of
debris.
If engine muffler is equipped with spark arrester screen,
remove for cleaning and inspection. Replace if damaged or
plugged. See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer
for correct replacement.
Muffler and spark arrester
Daily or more often,
before running en-
gine, clean muffler
area to remove all
grass and combus-
tible debris.
CLEAN
CLEAN
ARRESTER
Grass,chaffordebrismay clog theaircoolingsystem, especial-
ly after prolonged operation cutting tall, dry grass. Remove
blower housing and clean area shown to prevent overheating
and engine damage. Clean more often if necessary.
Air cooling system
CLEAN OUT
CHAFF AND
DEBRIS
.030” (0.76 mm)
WIRE GAGE
RESISTOR
PART NO. 491055
Spark plug
Use only Briggs & Strat-
tonSparkTester, Part No.
19368,tocheckforspark.
Replace spark plug. Do
not blast clean. Clean by
scraping or wire brushing
and washing with a
commercial solvent.
Note: Insome areas, local law requires using resistorspark plug
to suppress ignition signals. If this engine was originally equipped
with resistor spark plug, use same type for replacement.
In-line fuel filter
Replace in-line fuel filter.
See any Authorized
Briggs & Stratton Dealer
for correct replacement.
PART NO. 394358
(WITH FUEL PUMP) P/N 298090 OR 5018 (WITHOUT FUEL PUMP)
FILTER
Drain fuel tank or
close fuel shut-off
valve before re-
placing fuel filter.


   
Fill in both sides, clip and return to:
Briggs & Stratton Corporation
P.O. Box 1144
Milwaukee, WI 53201-1144 U.S.A.
Your Engine Type Code
Model
273683
Seeany Authorized Briggs&Stratton
Service Dealer. Insist on Genuine
Briggs & Stratton parts! Non-original
parts may not perform as well and
may void your warranty.
To obtain a complete Parts List of
Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts for
your engine, fill in both sides of this
order form carefully. We cannot fill
your order without the correct
Engine Model/Type/Code. (Please
allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery.)

Payment Method:
Check or money order enclosed payable to
Briggs & Stratton Corporation in the amount of $________
Please charge my MasterCard VISA
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
CREDIT CARD NUMBER
SIGNATURE (REQUIRED FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS EXPIRATION DATE
Parts List $2.00
Shipping & Handling $1.50
**Add State Sales Tax
Total
Fill in both sides of this order form carefully
(U.S. Dollars, please)
Briggs & Stratton Part Numbers of some
Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts:
Part Briggs & Stratton Part No.
Air cleaner cartridge 496894. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air cleaner pre-cleaner 272403. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air cleaner cartridge & pre-cleaner 5053. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resistor spark plug 491055. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spark plug wrench 89838 or 5023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spark tester 19368. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Schedule
Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occur first.
More frequent service is required when operating in adverse conditions noted below.
Briggs & Stratton Part Numbers of some
Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts:
Part Briggs & Stratton Part No.
Oil 100005 or 100028. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil filter (3-1/2 in. long) 491056. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil filter (2-1/4 in. long) 492932. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel filter (with fuel pump) 394358. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel filter (without fuel pump) 298090. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gas additive 5041. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OnlyGenuineBriggs
& Stratton Parts
have the Briggs &
Stratton logo!
Look for Briggs & Stratton logo
stamped on part and/or package!
273683
Addsalestaxifyouliveinanyofthefollowingstates:
             
            
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8
Maintenance Operation Every 8 Hours
or Daily 25 Hours or
Every Season 50 Hours or Every Season 100 Hours or Every Season Yearly
Check oil level 
Change oil ♦
Note 1
Replace oil filter, if equipped 
Service air cleaner pre-cleaner, if
equipped 
Note 2
Service air cleaner cartridge,
if not equipped with pre-cleaner 
Note 2
Service air cleaner cartridge,
if equipped with pre-cleaner 
Note 2
Inspect spark arrester,
if equipped 
Clean cooling system 
Note 2
Replace spark plug and
fuel filter, if equipped 
Check valve clearance 
♦Change oil after first 5 hours, then after every 50 hours or every season.
Note 1: Change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures.
Note 2: Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present.
Replace air cleaner parts, if very dirty.

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9
Service, Storage & Specifications
For service
See an Authorized Briggs & Stratton Service Dealer. Each
one carries a stock of Genuine Briggs & Stratton Parts and is
equipped with special service tools. Trained mechanics
assure expert repair service on all Briggs & Stratton engines.
Only dealers advertising as “Authorized Briggs & Stratton”
are required to meet Briggs & Stratton standards.
When you purchase equipment powered by a
Briggs & Stratton engine, you are assured of
highly skilled, reliable service at more than
30,000Authorized Service Dealers worldwide,
including more than 2,700 Master Service
Technicians. Look for these signs wherever
Briggs & Stratton service is offered.

YoumaylocateyournearestAuthorizedBriggs&
Stratton Service Dealer in the “Yellow Pages”
directoryunder “Engines,Gasoline”or“Gasoline
Engines,” or “Lawn Mowers” or similar category.
Orlogontoourdealerlocatormaponourwebsite
www.briggsandstratton.com
Note: Walking fingers logo and “Yellow Pages” are registered
trademarks in various jurisdictions.
The illustrated shop manual shown here
includes “Theories of Operation,” com-
mon specifications and detailed informa-
tion covering adjustment, tune-up and
repairofBriggs&Strattonsinglecylinder,
overhead valve, 4 cycle engines. It is
available from an Authorized Briggs &
Stratton Service Dealer or you can order
it from the factory. Write:
Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Attn: Service Division
P. O. Box 1144
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Part No. 272147
Storage instructions
Engines stored over 30 days need to be protected or drained
of fuel to prevent gum from forming in fuel system or on
essential carburetor parts.
1. Forengineprotection,werecommenduseof
Briggs&StrattonGasolineAdditive,PartNo.
5041, available from an Authorized Briggs &
Stratton Service Dealer. Mix Additive with
fuel in fuel tank or storage container. Run
engine for a short time to circulate Additive
through carburetor. Engine and fuel can be
stored up to 24 months.
P/N 5041
Your Service Dealer has single-use
pouches of Gasoline Additive available.
Note: If engine is operating on oxygenated or reformulated
gasoline (gasoline blended with an alcohol or an ether),
remove all fuel from tank and run engine until it stops from
lack of fuel. If engine is stored with gasoline in fuel tank, we
recommend the use of Gasoline additive, Part No. 5041.
2. While engine is still warm, drain oil from crankcase
(see page 6). Refill with fresh oil of recommended grade
(see chart page 3).
3. Removesparkplug and pour about 1 oz (30ml)ofengine
oil into cylinder. Replace spark plug and crank slowly to
distribute oil.
4. Clean dirt and chaff from cylinder, cylinder head fins, blower
housing, rotating screen and muffler area (see page 7).
5. Store in a clean and dry area, but NOT near a stove,
furnace or water heater which uses a pilot light or any
device that can create a spark.
General information
This is a single cylinder, over-head valve (OHV), air-cooled
engine.
On mobile equipment, this engine will operate satisfactorily at
any angle at which operator and equipment can function safely.
Model Series 28E700, 28N700, 287700, 28P700, 28Q700,
28S700, 28U700
Bore 3-7/16 in. (87.31 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stroke 3-1/16 in. (77.78 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Displacement 28.42cu. in. (465.7 cc). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque (Max.) 22.9 ft. lbs. @ 2700 rpm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Model Series 310700, 311700, 312700, 313700
Bore 3-9/16 in. (90.60 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stroke 3-1/16 in. (77.78 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Displacement 30.59 cu. in. (501.2 cc). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Note: Forpracticaloperation,thehorsepowerloadingshould
not exceed 85% of rated horsepower. Engine power will
decrease3-1/2%for each 1,000 feet (300meters)abovesea
level and 1% for each 10°F (5.6°C) above 77°F (25°C).
Tune-up specifications
Armature air gap is .010-.014 in. (.25-.36 mm)
Spark plug gap is .030 in. (.76 mm)
Valve clearance is:
Intake*.003-.005 in. (.08-.13 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust*.005-.007 in. (.13-.18 mm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
*with valve springs installed and piston 1/4 in. (6mm) past
top dead center.

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.
10
273683
Briggs & Stratton Corporation (B&S), the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Emission Control System Warranty Statement (Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations)
Intheinterestoftheenvironment,B&Senginesthatmeetstrictemis-
sionrequirementsarelabeled,“Thisengineconformsto1995-1998
California emission regulations for ULGE engines and U.S. EPA
Phase I regulations for small non-road engines.”
EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY COVERAGE IS APPLICABLE
TO CERTIFIED ENGINES PURCHASED IN CALIFORNIA IN 1995
AND THEREAFTER, WHICH ARE USED IN CALIFORNIA, AND
TO CERTIFIED MODEL YEAR 1997 AND LATER ENGINES
WHICH ARE PURCHASED AND USED ELSEWHERE IN THE
UNITED STATES.
California and United States Emission Control Defects Warranty Statement
CARB,U.S.EPA andB&SarepleasedtoexplaintheEmissionCon-
trol System Warranty on your 1996 and later utility or lawn and gar-
den equipment (ULGE) engine. In California, new ULGE engines
produced on or after August 1, 1995 must be designed, built and
equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. Else-
where in the United States, new non-road, spark-ignition engines
certified for model year 1997 and later, must meet similar standards
set forth by the U.S. EPA. B&S must warrant the emission control
system on your engine for the periods of time listed below, provided
there has been no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your
ULGE engine.
Your emission control system includes parts suchas thecarburetor,
air cleaner, ignition system, muffler and catalytic converter. Also in-
cluded may be connectors and other emission related assemblies.
Whereawarrantableconditionexists,B&SwillrepairyourULGEen-
gine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and labor.
Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage
ULGE engines are warranted relative to emission control parts de-
fectsforaperiodoftwoyears,subjecttoprovisionssetforthbelow.If anycoveredpartonyourengineisdefective,thepartwillberepaired or replaced by B&S.
Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities
AstheULGEengineowner,youareresponsiblefortheperformance
of the required maintenance listed in your Operator/Owner Manual.
B&S recommends that you retain all your receipts covering mainte-
nance on your ULGE engine, but B&S cannot deny warranty solely
forthelackofreceiptsorforyourfailuretoensuretheperformanceof
all scheduled maintenance.
AstheULGE engine owner,you should however be awarethatB&S
may deny you warranty coverage if your ULGE engine or a part has
failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved
modifications.
You are responsible for presenting your ULGE engine to an Autho-
rized B&S Service Dealer as soon as a problem exists. The undis-
putedwarrantyrepairsshouldbecompletedinareasonableamount
of time, not to exceed 30 days.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and re-
sponsibilities, you should contact a B&S Service Representative at
1-414-259-5262.
The emission warranty is a defects warranty. Defects are judgedon
normalengine performance. Thewarrantyisnotrelatedtoanin-use
emission test.
Briggs & Stratton Emission Control Defects Warranty Provisions
Thefollowingare specific provisionsrelativeto your Emission ControlDefectsWarrantyCoverage. Itisin addition to theB&Sengine warranty
for non-regulated engines found in the Operator/Owner Manual.
1. Warranted Parts
Coverageunderthiswarrantyextendsonlytothepartslistedbe-
low (the emission control systems parts) to the extent these
parts were present on the engine purchased.
a. Fuel Metering System
•Cold start enrichment system (soft choke)
•Carburetor and internal parts
•Fuel Pump
b. Air Induction System
•Air cleaner
•Intake manifold
c. Ignition System
•Spark plug(s)
•Magneto ignition system
d. Catalyst System
•Catalytic converter
•Exhaust manifold
•Air injection system or pulse valve
e. Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems
•Vacuum, temperature, position, time sensitive valves
and switches
•Connectors and assemblies
2. Length of Coverage
B&Swarrantstotheinitialownerandeachsubsequentpurchaser
that the Warranted Parts shall be free from defects in materials
and workmanship which caused the failure of the Warranted
Parts for a period of two years from the date the engine is deliv-
ered to a retail purchaser.
3. No Charge
Repair or replacement of any Warranted Part will be performed
atnochargetotheowner,includingdiagnosticlaborwhichleads
to the determination that a Warranted Part is defective, if the
diagnostic work is performed at an Authorized B&S Service
Dealer.ForemissionswarrantyservicecontactyournearestAu-
thorized B&S Service Dealer as listed in the “Yellow Pages” un-
der “Engines, Gasoline,” “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mowers,”
or similar category.
4. Claims and Coverage Exclusions
Warranty claims shall be filed in accordance with the provisions
of the B&S Engine Warranty Policy. Warranty coverage shall be
excluded for failures of Warranted Parts which are not original
B&S parts or because of abuse, neglect or improper mainte-
nanceassetforthintheB&SEngineWarrantyPolicy.B&Sisnot
liable to cover failures of Warranted Parts caused by the use of
add-on, non-original, or modified parts.
5. Maintenance
Any Warranted Part which is not scheduled for replacement as
required maintenance or which is scheduled only for regular in-
spectiontotheeffectof“repairorreplaceas necessary” shall be
warranted as to defects for the warranty period. Any Warranted
Part which is scheduled for replacement as required mainte-
nanceshallbewarrantedastodefectsonlyfortheperiodoftime
up to the first scheduled replacement for that part. Any replace-
ment part that is equivalent in performance and durability may
be used in the performance of any maintenance or repairs. The
owner is responsible for the performance of all required mainte-
nance, as defined in the B&S Operator/Owner Manual.
6. Consequential Coverage
Coverage hereunder shall extend to the failure of any engine
componentscausedbythefailureofanyWarrantedPartstillun-
der warranty.

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.
11
About your engine warranty: (see back cover for statement of LIMITED WARRANTY).
Briggs & Stratton welcomes warranty repair and apologizes
to you for being inconvenienced. Any Authorized Service
Dealer may perform warranty repairs. Most warranty repairs
are handled routinely, but sometimes requests for warranty
servicemaynotbeappropriate.Forexample,warrantywould
notapplyifenginedamage occurredbecauseofmisuse,lack
of routine maintenance, shipping, handling, warehousing or
improper installation. Similarly, warranty is void if the serial
number of the engine has been removed or the engine has
been altered or modified.
If a customer differs with the decision of the Service Dealer, an
investigation will be made to determine whether the warranty
applies.AsktheServiceDealertosubmitallsupportingfactsto
his Distributor or the Factory for review. If the Distributor or the
Factory decides that the claim is justified, the customer will be
fully reimbursed for those items that are defective. To avoid
misunderstanding which might occur between the customer
and the Dealer, listed below are some of the causes of engine
failure that the warranty does not cover.
Improper maintenance:
The life of an engine depends upon the conditions under
whichitoperates,andthecareitreceives.Someapplications,
suchastillers,pumpsandrotarymowers,areveryoftenused
in dusty or dirty conditions, which can cause what appears to
be premature wear. Such wear, when caused by dirt, dust,
spark plug cleaning grit, or other abrasive material that has
entered the engine because of improper maintenance, is not
covered by warranty.
This warranty covers engine related defective material
and/orworkmanshiponly, andnotreplacementorrefund
of the equipment to which the engine may be mounted.
Nor does the warranty extend to repairs required be-
cause of:
1. PROBLEMS CAUSED BY PARTS THAT ARE NOT
ORIGINAL BRIGGS & STRATTON PARTS.
2. Equipment controls or installations that prevent starting,
cause unsatisfactory engine performance, or shorten en-
gine life. (Contact equipment manufacturer.)
3. Leaking carburetors, clogged fuel pipes, sticking valves,
or other damage, caused by using contaminated or stale
fuel. (Use clean, fresh, lead-free gasoline and Briggs &
Stratton gasoline stabilizer, Part No. 5041.)
4. Partswhich are scoredorbroken becauseanenginewas
operated with insufficient or contaminated lubricating oil,
oranincorrectgradeoflubricatingoil(checkoilleveldaily
or after every 8 hours of operation. Refillwhen necessary
and change at recommended intervals.) Read “Owner’s
Manual.”
5. Repair or adjustment of associated parts or assemblies
such as clutches, transmissions, remote controls, etc.,
which are not manufactured by Briggs & Stratton.
6. Damage or wear to parts caused by dirt, which entered
theengine because ofimproperair cleanermaintenance,
re-assembly, or use of a non-original air cleaner element
or cartridge. (At recommended intervals, clean and re-oil
the Oil-Foamelement or the foam pre-cleaner, and re-
place the cartridge.) Read “Owner’s Manual.”
7. Parts damaged by overspeeding, or overheating caused
by grass, debris, or dirt, which plugs or clogs the cooling
fins,or flywheel area,ordamage causedbyoperatingthe
engine in a confined area without sufficient ventilation.
(Clean fins on the cylinder, cylinder head and flywheel at
recommended intervals.) Read “Owner’s Manual.”
8. Engine or equipment parts broken by excessive vibration
caused by a loose engine mounting, loose cutter blades,
unbalanced blades or loose or unbalanced impellers, im-
proper attachment of equipment to engine crankshaft,
overspeeding or other abuse in operation.
9. Abentorbrokencrankshaft,causedbystrikingasolidob-
jectwiththecutterbladeofarotarylawnmower,orexces-
sive v-belt tightness.
10.Routine tune-up or adjustment of the engine.
11. Engine or engine component failure, i.e., combustion
chamber, valves, valve seats, valve guides, or burned
starter motor windings, caused by the use of alternate
fuels such as, liquified petroleum, natural gas, altered
gasolines, etc.
Warrantyis available onlythrough servicedealers which
have been authorized by Briggs & Stratton Corporation.
Your nearest Authorized Service Dealer is listed in the
“Yellow Pages” of your telephone directory under “En-
gines, Gasoline” or “Gasoline Engines,” “Lawn Mow-
ers,” or similar category.
Briggs & Stratton Engines Are Made Under One Or More Of The Following Patents: Design D-247,177 (Other Patents Pending)
5,642,701
5,606,948
5,548,955
5,546,901
5,503,125
5,497,679
5,320,795
5,271,363
5,269,713
5,265,700
5,243,878
5,235,943
5,197,425
5,197,422
5,191,864
5,188,069
5,186,142
5,138,996
5,105,331
5,086,890
5,070,829
5,058,544
5,040,644
5,040,503
5,009,208
4,996,956
4,995,357
4,977,879
4,971,219
4,895,119
4,875,448
4,819,593
4,719,682
4,694,792
4,633,556
4,630,498
4,522,080
4,520,288
4,453,507
4,430,984
4,355,253
4,270,509
DES. 309,458
DES. 309,457
DES. 308,872
DES. 308,871

In the USA and Canada, a 24 hour hot line, 1-800-233-3723, has a menu of pre-recorded messages offering you engine maintenance information.
12
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE OWNER WARRANTY POLICY
effective July 1, 1998
Replaces all undated Warranties and all Warranties
dated before July 1, 1998
LIMITED WARRANTY
“Briggs & Stratton Corporation will repair or replace, free of charge, any part, or parts of the engine that are defective in
material or workmanship or both. Transportation charges on parts submitted for repair or replacement under this Warranty
mustbe borne by purchaser. This warranty is effective for the time periodsand subject tothe conditions provided forin this
policy.ForwarrantyservicecontactyournearestAuthorizedServiceDealeraslistedinthe‘YellowPages’under‘Engines,
Gasoline,’ ‘Gasoline Engines,’ ‘Lawn Mowers’ or similar category. THERE IS NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY. IM-
PLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
ARE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR FROM PURCHASE, OR TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ANY AND ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIESAREEXCLUDED.LIABILITYFORCONSEQUENTIALDAMAGESUNDERANYANDALLWARRANTIES
ARE EXCLUDED TO THE EXTENT EXCLUSION IS PERMITTED BY LAW. Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, and some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential dam-
ages,sothe above limitation and exclusion may notapplytoyou.Thiswarranty gives you specific legal rightsandyoumay
also have other rights which vary from state to state.” Briggs & Stratton Corporation
F. P. Stratton, Jr.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
WARRANTY PERIOD
WITHIN U.S.A. AND CANADA OUTSIDE U.S.A. AND CANADA
ENGINES CONSUMER
USE*COMMERCIAL USE*CONSUMER USE*COMMERCIAL USE*
All Vanguardengines. 2 year – engine }/ Lifetime** – Magnetronignition
All Diamond Plus, Industrial Plus, I/C
engines and sleeve bore Intek series. 2 year 1 year 2 year }1 year
Quantumand Diamond Power.2 year 90 days {2 year {} 90 days
AllstandardenginesandKoolBoreIntekseries
installed on lawn mowers, riders, edgers,
chippers, shredders, tillers, fun carts, and all
Sno/Gard engines. 2 year 90 days 1 year 90 days
All other standard engines and Classicseries. 1 year 90 days 1 year 90 days
*Forpurposes ofthiswarrantypolicy, “consumeruse”means personalresidentialhouseholduseby theoriginalretailconsumer.
“Commercial use” means all other uses, including use for commercial, income producing or rental purposes. Once an engine
has experienced commercial use, it shall thereafter be considered as a commercial use engine for purposes of this warranty.
Engines used in competitive racing or on commercial or rental tracks are not warrantied.
** Lifetimelimited warranty of the Magnetronignition covers partsand labor forthe first five (5)years from thedate of purchase;
thereafter only parts. “Lifetime” means lifetime of the engine in the hands of the original purchaser.
{One (1) year in Australia, New Zealand, Middle East and Africa.
}One (1) year in India.
NO WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD IS NECESSARY TO OBTAIN WARRANTY ON BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES.
YOU MUST SAVE THE PURCHASE RECEIPT. A PROOF OF PURCHASE DATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN WARRANTY.