The following is response from Briggs & Stratton . Good reading? I'm not too impressed with expert response.
Later,
Doug
Thank you for your inquiry. I sincerely apologize for the delayed response and for the problems you have experienced with our product. The camshaft has a compression release mechanism that if not overcome, will cause this symptom. We have found that most of these issues are related to incorrect valve settings. Typically, a few things can cause what you are describing.
To repair, try the following:
Re-check the valve settings. Keep in mind that the piston has to be a 1/4 past Top Dead Center on the compression stroke when setting the valves. The best is to set the exhaust valve to the minimum tolerance to give you maximum lift (to get the most compression release). If you have 2 pistons, the process has to be repeated for each set of valves. For more information, please view Servicing The Valves.
Check the head, valve guides, camshaft, and tappets (If equipped). Replace as needed. This is a last case scenario. Because you will have to open the engine to get at the camshaft, you will greatly benefit from the help of a registered Briggs & Stratton dealer on this particular repair.
If none of the above suggestions work, I strongly suggest consulting a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer located in your area. Keep in mind, your best source of information regarding any engine concern would be a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer. Your Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer has all the information relating to Briggs & Stratton warranty, replacement engines, short blocks, parts, pricing, service/repair, specifications, etc.
