Toro recycler with 7hp Briggs hard to start

[Lyndmc]

First, this is a 2010 model. When you cleaned the carb, did you replace the float needle and seat, plus adjust the float level? I’m guess that being that old the seat has swelled and it is resulting in a lean starting and running condition. I normally set the float level slightly rich which results in easier starting.

I did not, I pulled it apart and cleaned it, that was it. I was surprised at how clean everything was. I should have at least checked the float level.

 

[mechanic mark]

Results

www.briggsandstratton.com

https://bsintek.basco.com/BriggsDocumentDisplay/default.aspx?filename=qjmrDP0abqAl.79DteBc

See pages 9 & 10 in manual above, engine specs. your engine intake & exhaust valves should be adjusted to .004-.008 with engine cold.

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[GearHead36]

The only thing that I haven't and most likely won't do, is get into the valve adjustment not being an OHV motor.

Unfortunately, that's probably exactly what it needs now.

 

[Rivets]

Personally I doubt your problem is valve clearance. To many times valves are blamed before easier solutions are exhausted.

 

[GearHead36]

Personally I doubt your problem is valve clearance. To many times valves are blamed before easier solutions are exhausted.

Sounds like he's run through the easier options.

 

[Rivets]

It’s a whole lot easier to check the float level in the carb than adjusting the valve clearance on a L-Head engine.

 

[Gearhead1432]

It’s not too difficult to check the valve clearance. Just remove the muffler to access the valve cover. Make sure the engine is a top dead center on the compression stroke.

Adjusting the clearance is more involved. You’ll need to remove the head and valves. The valve tip has to be ground or filed to increase clearance.

 

[Rivets]

If my memory is any good, the cover to access the valve stems, is behind the carb.

 

[Gearhead1432]

If my memory is any good, the cover to access the valve stems, is behind the carb.

There’s a good chance you’re right. I haven’t worked on these late flatheads before. I looked up the 2010 Toro 20334 and found it should have a B&S126T05-0933-B1engine. The engine parts diagram shows the same basic configuration they’ve used for decades, which shows the valve access cover next to the exhaust port.