I'm lost. To my understanding after reading my Briggs engine manual, Troy-Bilt Pony riding mower manual, and my own observation, certain Briggs & Stratton 310000 series engines don't have an oil filter. Is this correct? Well, it HAS to be since mine doesn't have one.
Now, understand, this mower is several years (or Lord knows how many) old. It was sitting in the garage, neglected and un-running when I moved in to my home. I just got it running, and it runs just fine. However, the oil is black as Guinness beer, and about as thin too. I imagine the previous neglectors never changed the oil. That's my purpose this week, but I'm puzzled about the oil filter, or lack thereof.
I guess my main question is this. Why would these machines not have an oil filter? Is there anything which cleans/conditions the oil to protect the engine from unwanted particles? Is this merely a "disposable" engine? I've had one other B&S in my life and it was definitely a disposable thing. I've been a two-cycle Lawn Boy guy my life and my newest is 14 years old, on track for a 24 year old life. But this is my first riding mower and I want to take care of it. What protects the oil/engine in lieu of a filter? an internal setup? How do I ensure a long life?
Thanks folks, I appreciate it.
Now, understand, this mower is several years (or Lord knows how many) old. It was sitting in the garage, neglected and un-running when I moved in to my home. I just got it running, and it runs just fine. However, the oil is black as Guinness beer, and about as thin too. I imagine the previous neglectors never changed the oil. That's my purpose this week, but I'm puzzled about the oil filter, or lack thereof.
I guess my main question is this. Why would these machines not have an oil filter? Is there anything which cleans/conditions the oil to protect the engine from unwanted particles? Is this merely a "disposable" engine? I've had one other B&S in my life and it was definitely a disposable thing. I've been a two-cycle Lawn Boy guy my life and my newest is 14 years old, on track for a 24 year old life. But this is my first riding mower and I want to take care of it. What protects the oil/engine in lieu of a filter? an internal setup? How do I ensure a long life?
Thanks folks, I appreciate it.