4 Major Symptoms Of A Briggs And Stratton Blown Head Gasket

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The engine head of your Briggs and Stratton, encircled by those characteristic fins, plays a pivotal role in your engine’s functionality. The head gasket, a seemingly inconspicuous component, is instrumental in sealing the engine block and the cylinder head, preserving compression, and preventing any unwanted lubricant from infiltrating the combustion chamber. Regrettably, the incidence of a blown head gasket is not uncommon. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the detection and troubleshooting of a blown head gasket in your Briggs and Stratton engine.

Identifying Symptoms of a Blown Head Gasket in Briggs and Stratton Engines

When it comes to identifying a blown head gasket in your Briggs and Stratton engine, some distinct symptoms emerge. Let’s explore these signs in detail:

1. Eerie White Smoke

Imagine a serene Sunday morning, the scent of freshly cut grass in the air, and your lawnmower in hand. However, as you traverse your lawn, you suddenly detect a peculiar sweet odor in the atmosphere. Turning around, you are met with a haunting sight – billowing white smoke trailing your every move. It’s not a ghostly apparition but a distressing situation with your Briggs and Stratton engine.

The emergence of white smoke accompanied by a sweet fragrance is one of the most conspicuous indicators of a blown head gasket. This smoke intensifies as you increase the throttle. Typically, this smoke emanates from the exhaust due to antifreeze leaking into the cylinders through the compromised gasket. This leakage unmistakably points to a damaged head gasket. In cases where the smoke takes on a blue hue, it signifies an oil passage leakage, with oil making its way into the cylinders. A damaged gasket allows combustion pressure to infiltrate the cooling system or the oil breather system, causing issues similar to a loose dipstick or a ruptured radiator hose.

2. Oil Leakage and Residue

If your head gasket has sustained damage, you may notice a peculiar ‘milky liquid’ or sludge on the dipstick. This anomaly can also manifest underneath the oil filler cap, indicating an oil leak. When the head gasket is compromised, coolant may mix with the oil, resulting in this unappetizing combination. Gradually, a line of oil may form around the gasket’s connection points, permitting oil to seep through as the gasket’s seal deteriorates over time.

3. Failing Compression Test

The head gasket plays a pivotal role in maintaining a vacuum seal within the engine’s combustion chamber, with a steel plate separating the engine block from the cylinder head. A compromised head gasket can lead to compressed air or fuel escaping, causing reduced compression and a subsequent loss of engine power. The integrity of this plate’s bolts and the condition of the gasket are crucial. If any bolts are missing or if the gasket is cracked, the vacuum seal may be compromised, resulting in reduced pressure within the combustion chamber. To conduct a simple compression test, pull the starter cord a few times while the engine is cold. If the pressure reading falls below 60 psi, it’s a clear indicator of a troubled head gasket. If the reading remains unchanged after adding oil to the spark plug hole, the head gasket is undoubtedly blown. Alternatively, a compression gauge can be used for a more precise assessment.

4. Overheating Woes

Overheating issues are often attributed to radiator clogs, coolant leaks, or malfunctioning cooling fans. However, a blown head gasket can also contribute to engine overheating. When the head gasket is compromised, it can disrupt the engine’s cooling system, preventing the engine temperature from stabilizing. If the cooling fan fails to function as intended, overheating becomes a distinct possibility.

Pro Tip:

The sudden appearance of smoke should serve as a compelling reason to initiate a thorough investigation into the possibility of a blown head gasket. While other symptoms may be attributable to various causes, smoke is a reliable red flag.

What Actions to Take When a Briggs and Stratton Blown Head Gasket is Detected

Antifreeze contamination poses a significant threat to the engine’s bearings, so swift action is imperative when a blown head gasket is detected. Here are the steps to take:

  1. Oil Filter Replacement and Flush: Replace the oil filter and conduct an oil flush to eliminate any residual oil leakage. It’s essential to ensure that all oil remnants are removed from the engine.
  2. Inspect and Replace Seals: Disassemble the engine unit if possible and inspect it for any oil-related damage. Replacing the damaged or dried-out head gasket seals is vital for a long-lasting fix. While a liquid sealant can serve as a temporary solution, replacing the seals is the recommended course of action.
  3. Comprehensive Cleanup: Consider cleaning the entire engine unit during the repair process. Residual leaks can lead to further damage to the unit, so thorough cleaning is advisable.

Is Replacing a Briggs and Stratton Blown Head Gasket Costly?

The cost of replacing a Briggs and Stratton head gasket can vary. For a single part, such as the gasket itself, the cost can be as low as $8. If you opt for a complete kit, it typically ranges around $100. Replacing individual components can be accomplished within approximately half an hour. However, if the gasket is severely damaged, it may necessitate the expertise of a professional.

In cases requiring professional services, the total cost, including labor, can range from $1000 to $3000. In such instances, it may be more financially viable to consider purchasing a new lawnmower, as this price range can be deemed relatively expensive.

How Frequently Should You Inspect or Service the Briggs and Stratton Blown Head Gasket?

Regular inspections of a blown head gasket are typically unnecessary unless visible signs of oil spillage around the gasket become apparent. Nonetheless, it is advisable to perform routine checks on your lawnmower after each use, as a preventative measure.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a blown head gasket is a relatively common issue, particularly in Briggs and Stratton mowers. Addressing this problem can be costly, and in some cases, it may be more practical to invest in a new lawnmower. However, when these engines are in their prime, they deliver commendable performance. If reliability and performance are your primary criteria, then a Briggs and Stratton mower may still be an excellent choice for your lawn care needs.

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