Briggs Question

[Nat]

I know this isn't a lawn tractor, but the answer will apply to them.
I have a Terrimite T5 with a Briggs 18 HP engine. A couple days ago the starter bendix went out. I got a new bendix yesterday and installed it this morning. Bear in mind that you have to remove the fuel tank, grill, then the engine then the sheetmetel covering on the engine to install a starter drive. Anyhow, I got it back together and started it up. It started and ran fine then the next time I started it the bendix went out again. The toothed gear that engauges the flywheel just disintergrated, just like the old one.
My question is there anything wrong, is the starter maybe bad, or did I just get a defective one. I don't want to make it a habit to tear it all the way down again. Thanks for any help' later, Nat

 

[atschirner]

Good afternoon Nat,

You didn't say much about the type of B/S 18 you have so I'm guessing here. If it is an overhead valve twin you may want to check the valve lash.

Here's the theory, mis-adjusted exhaust valve lash will not allow the compression release to operate correctly. The higher torque required to spin the flywheel may be the root cause of your shredded starter gear.

There are many good step by step instructions on checking and setting valve lash on a number of small engine forums.

Hope this help you and please let us know what you find.

Best, Alan

 

[Nat]

Alan, I appreciate the reply. I don't think the compression relief is the problem, as the engine spins freely while starting. I had thought about that when the first one went out, but a simple hand turn assured me that the compression was not the problem.
I wonder if the starter itsefl may be the culprit. With the starter drive off it is a little difficult to spin the starter shaft with your thumb and forefinger, meaning it turns a little stiff. Ever since I've owned this hoe it has sounded like a geardrive starter. I can't discribe the sound very well, but it does sound odd when it's turning, but I don't have another 2 cyl opposed B&S to compare it to.
Does this give anyone a clue?
Thanks, Nat

 

[Jimmy Joe]

Did you check the flywheel gear all the way around for damaged teeth? I don't know if there shims that can be used on this type of starter but do the gears match up properly?

 

[David_Kb7uns]

I have had problems with non OEM Briggs replacement bendix drives and gears sticking and getting ground up by flywheel.

David Kb7uns

 

[KevPH1]

Having changed the starter on my stx38, The option was available for for three drive sprockets with different tooth count. I think it was 8, 9, or 11 teeth. You may have install a starter with a different tooth count sprocket.
Were there any shims used to correctly space/mount the starter motor? I hope this helps!