Briggs and Stratton Oil Leak Problems! How to Solve Them?

Briggs and Stratton, a renowned brand in the small engine market, has a reputation for dependability and durability. Many customers, however, have reported oil leak issues with their Briggs and Stratton engines.

Oil leaks in Briggs and Stratton engines can be caused by a variety of circumstances, including faulty seals, broken gaskets, worn out components, and manufacturing flaws.

Oil leaks not only reduce mower performance but also represent a safety issue and can harm the environment. You can take the essential actions to maintain the engine by recognizing these oil leak concerns.

Briggs and Stratton Oil Leak Problems

Why Does the Briggs and Stratton Have Oil Leak Problems?

One of the most common reasons of oil leaks in Briggs and Stratton mower engines is worn out components. Over time, parts such as the crankshaft seal, oil pan gasket, or valve cover gasket might get worn or broken.

Poor seals are another typical reason, allowing oil to seep out of the engine and onto the surrounding regions. Manufacturing flaws can also lead to oil leaks since some engines are poorly built or have broken parts.

Substandard or low-quality oils, which are not meant to survive the high temperatures and pressures within the engine, can also cause oil leaks.

Overfilling the engine with oil can result in oil being driven out of the breather and onto the surrounding surroundings, causing oil leaks in rare situations.

Oil leaks can also be caused by improper engine maintenance, such as failing to replace old or broken components.

5 Reasons of the Briggs and Stratton Mower Engine Oil Leak Problem (Easy Fixes Included)

Briggs and Stratton Mower Engine Oil Leak Problem

Here are some of the reasons why the Briggs and Stratton engine is leaking oil. The fixes for each of these reasons are also included here.

1. Worn Out Parts

Worn out components, such as the crankshaft seal, oil pan gasket, or valve cover gasket, are one of the most prevalent reasons of oil leaks in Briggs and Stratton mower engines.

These components can deteriorate and shatter with time, resulting in oil spills.

The Fix

To resolve this issue, it is advised that the crankshaft seal, oil pan gasket, and valve cover gasket be inspected on a regular basis and replaced if they exhibit indications of wear and tear.

High-quality parts intended to survive the high temperatures and pressures inside the engine should be used for the replacement.

2. Poor Seals

Oil leaks in Briggs and Stratton engines can also be caused by faulty seals. Seals can grow brittle and shatter with time, enabling oil to leak out of the engine and onto the surrounding regions.

The Fix

To begin resolving this issue, carefully examine the seals. They have gotten damaged if you observe any symptoms of damage or wear. You can try to fix them, but replacing the seals is the best long-term option.

To maintain adequate sealing and to limit the possibility of future leaks, high-quality seals should be used for replacement.

3. Overfilling the Engine with Oil

Overfilling the engine with oil might result in engine damage. Many individuals believe that overfilling is a positive habit that helps the engine function more smoothly.

However, if you do this, additional oil will be squeezed out of the breather. As a result, oil will seep into the surrounding region, causing oil leaks.

The Fix

To avoid this issue, adhere to the manufacturer’s suggested oil level and avoid overfilling the engine.

You should also check the oil level on a regular basis. To assist maintain the optimum oil level and limit the possibility of leaks, add or remove oil as needed.

4. No Maintenance

Oil leaks in Briggs and Stratton engines can also be caused by a lack of maintenance. Failure to replace old or broken components and failure to adhere to the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance plan are examples of this.

The Fix

To avoid this issue, adhere to the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance plan. If you observe any damage to the mower’s engine, replace the parts as needed.

Regular maintenance can help your engine last longer and lessen the chance of oil leaks. So, after each use, inspect the product for any issues.

5. Using Substandard Oil

Oil leaks can occur when inferior or low-quality oils are used in Briggs and Stratton engines. If the engine is not adequately oiled, it may operate less smoothly and effectively.

The oil may be unable to tolerate high temperatures, causing the engine to overheat. Low-quality oil may not provide proper lubrication, resulting in increased wear and tear on engine components.

Subpar oil may not offer proper sealing, resulting in oil leaks.

The Fix

To solve these issues, it is critical to utilize high-quality oils that are engineered to endure high temperatures and pressures.

To ensure that the engine is properly lubricated, use the manufacturer’s suggested oil and check the oil level on a regular basis.

If you feel you’ve been using substandard or low-quality oil, you should get your engine tested and serviced by an expert. This will assist to avoid future damage while also ensuring that your engine runs smoothly and effectively.

How to Replace the Crankshaft Seal on a Briggs and Stratton Mower Engine?

How to Replace the Crankshaft Seal on a Briggs and Stratton Mower Engine

Replacing the crankshaft seal on a Briggs and Stratton engine demands considerable mechanical know-how as well as the right equipment. Here’s a step-by-step procedure for replacing the crankshaft seal:

  1. Prepare the engine: To prevent an accidental start-up, empty the engine oil and unplug the spark plug wire.
  • Remove the Engine Cover: Discard any nuts or screws that keep the engine cover in place.
  • Locate the Crankshaft Seal: The crankshaft seal is placed at the base of the crankshaft and is responsible for stopping oil from seeping out of the engine.
  • Remove the Old Seal: Remove the old seal off the crankshaft with a seal puller or pry bar. During this phase, take care not to harm the crankshaft or any surrounding components.
  • Clean the Area: Make sure the surface where the new seal will be fitted is clean and free of dirt and oil.
  • Install the New Seal: Insert the new seal carefully; making sure it is firmly positioned against the crankshaft.
  • Reinstall the Engine Cover: Replace and secure any bolts or screws that hold the engine cover in place.
  • Fill the Engine with Oil: Fill the engine with the specified oil and check the oil level to verify it is correct.
  • Engine Evaluation: Start the engine and look for any leaks in the oil. The engine is ready to use if there are no leaks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the symptoms of an oil leak in a Briggs and Stratton mower engine?

The most common symptom of an oil leak is oil appearing on the ground underneath the engine. This can also cause decreased engine performance and reduced oil pressure.

How often should I check the oil level in my Briggs and Stratton mower engine?

It’s recommended to check the oil level in your engine regularly, such as once a month or before each use.

How much does it cost to replace the crankshaft seal, oil pan gasket, and valve cover gasket?

On average, the cost of these parts can range anywhere from $10 to $50 per piece, but could be more or less depending on the engine model and the retailer.

Related Posts:

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *