Hey All,
Kawasaki FR691V 6 years old. Noticed loss of power fairly suddenly. Went through some basic tests (thankful for wealth of information on this site) and narrowed it down to bent push rods on left cylinder. Being a newb when it comes to small engines, I’m now looking for some direction for what to do next.
Here’s what I know so far:
Engine is running great for being on one cylinder. Can cut grass albeit a little slower and only on flat ground.
The bad cylinder has spark.
There was a mouse nest that is the likely culprit leading to overheating.
When I opened the valve covers there was a lot of oil in the valve case (not sure if that is normal – could be for all I know).
Both push rods were bent. No visible damage to rockers or valves.
Both valves push up and down but I’m not sure what “normal” resistance and length is.
Any help with next steps would be appreciated. I know push rods don’t bend on their own so there is root cause. Would it be helpful to get some new push rods and see how the valves are operating before going any further or is it best to remove the head for further investigation?
Thanks!
Ryan
Kawasaki FR691V 6 years old. Noticed loss of power fairly suddenly. Went through some basic tests (thankful for wealth of information on this site) and narrowed it down to bent push rods on left cylinder. Being a newb when it comes to small engines, I’m now looking for some direction for what to do next.
Here’s what I know so far:
Engine is running great for being on one cylinder. Can cut grass albeit a little slower and only on flat ground.
The bad cylinder has spark.
There was a mouse nest that is the likely culprit leading to overheating.
When I opened the valve covers there was a lot of oil in the valve case (not sure if that is normal – could be for all I know).
Both push rods were bent. No visible damage to rockers or valves.
Both valves push up and down but I’m not sure what “normal” resistance and length is.
Any help with next steps would be appreciated. I know push rods don’t bend on their own so there is root cause. Would it be helpful to get some new push rods and see how the valves are operating before going any further or is it best to remove the head for further investigation?
Thanks!
Ryan