Briggs Threw a Rod - No Oil Again (Part 1)

[@jayb3518]

I don't understand how I can sit here and binge watch this guys videos... he's like the Bob Ross of Small engine repair. Watching his videos has helped me get two old generators and my riding lawnmower running well, fix my brothers generator, and diagnose why only one line on another generator worked while the other did not. Can't wait for the next video, whether or not it's something I would need to work on. I find myself looking for Generators to try to fix or tune-up...

[@johncourtneidge]

Lovely endorsement! True!

[@mikerossman9863]

He must live in the “Bermuda Triangle” of small engines😂 no way my area has this many to keep on man so busy.

[@jayw900]

What is hard to understand? You clearly have an interest in small engines or engines in general. Even if it's just on the off chance that you save some money doing it yourself.

[@UhBuddy1976]

💯%

[@UhBuddy1976]

Aren’t these particular engines not even manufactured by Briggs & Stratton? It looks very very similar to all of the Chinese clones. I suspect that it is Chinese made, and it’s rebranded to be a Briggs even though it’s probably not. The only other way I would say it’s a Briggs is if they have their own factory in China and they just built them like a Honda clone.

[@robertdavis6708]

As long as those oil rings stay above the damage, it will run forever. I've rebuilt dozens of these grenade blocks and had no issues. I do go in with a die grinder and smooth the void . Don't worry, that is a great engine if people are reminded every third tank of gas to check the oil level. Jim, I appreciate your video efforts, a subscriber for life.

[@martin4787]

I agree 100% Robert. I'd not have any problems putting that block back together, and I've been a petrol diesel mechanic since 1974, having rebuilt mower engines up to 18 wheeler's I think you say in the States.

[@tiredoldmechanic1791]

I'm thinking the same way. Maybe if you know someone to do the machining, you might be able to put a cast iron sleeve in it. I don't know how much room the newer engines have. I did a couple of Briggs engines back in the 70s. I took a night class at a tech school just to use the machines. A Melling sleeve costs about $25.

[@martin4787]

@@tiredoldmechanic1791 I don't think a little chip out of the bottom of bore would cause a problem imo. It's not exactly a high performance engine at the end of the day.

[@woodstover]

I agree also. That piston skirt shouldn't even touch that spot, rings and geometry of the crank/rods keep the piston in alignment. Would also just tidy up the boo boo and leave it at that.

[@chrishartley1210]

Since he was talking about selling the engine/generator I would have considered sleeving it, if only to avoid any comeback.

[@DeadKoby]

I remember years ago when there was a major power outage at my parents home. We ran a borrowed portable generator for 3 days. EVERY fuel fill-up, checking and topping the oil was part of the procedure. I don't remember if that generator had a low oil shutoff, but it didn't matter with the constant checks/fills.

[@daboomer2277]

Oh wow.

[@johnmills186]

I really enjoy your content. Your videos saved me about $1000 on a generator I ordered from Amazon. Came in with broken stator mount and they refunded my money and ask if I could dispose of it. $130 part and your videos later I had a new generator that even qualified for warrenty by the Mfg. That was a 13000 watt duel fuel generator.

[@kcMan7938]

It’s fun to learn how to get an engine running again . When I was a kid we would go junk picking when the city would have curbside pickup . We made a few go carts and hot rod lawnmowers . Fun times !!!

[@gregboren]

Can’t believe I am so addicted to watching your KZbin. Thank you for posting. In my younger years I worked on small 2-5hp Briggs & Stratton, Tecumseh engines for my go karts. Your KZbins bring back great memories. I’m watching most all of them. Thank you.

[@redsoundptyltd7190]

James, Thank you for another fascinating presentation. I have viewed lots of them on my smart TV but been unable to comment since there is no keyboard to do any real typing on it, but now viewing on my computer I am able to put in my views for what they are worth. I am not a mechanic's bootlace (my father's observation). >50 years ago dad was a formally trained mechanic from the early part of last century. He would never let me open an engine block without thorough cleaning and degreasing of the entire outside: Hose it down, "dirty" Kerosene (You probably call it paraffin) then clean kerosene, hose again (these were my jobs which I hated, and probably one reason I never went into mechanics) careful wiping over the outside with a clean oily rag then we could open the top or the crankcase. He claimed a few specks of sand could ruin an otherwise good engine. He worked on the car engines that were available in those days but never had all the pressure packed solutions that you seem to have access to so that is probably part of the difference. One suggestion if you pardon my cheek, Those engine heads would fit into a dishwashing machine which is designed to able to clean baking cookware that is made of aluminium (yes I know that's not how you say it but Sir Humphrey Davey, the first to isolate the metal called it that after he first used "Alumium" and decided that the longer version would be better😊). Would it not be worth a trial on some old engine head to see how effective it is and whether it could do the job without damage?

[@rancelynch6514]

Rance here. Jim you are unbelievable with your small engine diagnostic skills! What have I learned? Use all of your senses that God gave us! Jim, it would be beyond any calculable amount to offer a small engine diagnostic & surgery course for small engines, limited to one highly qualified current graduate of a Jr College Vocational education program. (subject cost) Nothing takes the place of 1 on 1 teaching. I know it couldn’t happen, that is what the videos do. But, you are such a good teacher!

[@PaulMack1249]

Fix the parts machine so you can fix the generator. And we get two repairs for the price of one. You’re the best, pal.

[@jesterr7133]

Thursday is quickly becoming my favorite day of the week. Your new video is becoming the highlight of my week.

[@jcondon1]

Nice to hear! I almost did not publish today. KZbin was having issues processing my video. Thankfully it finished just in time.

[@andyjame6351]

Just completed the break-in period and so far the unit is operating perfectly kzbin.infoUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y . I was amazed by just how quiet this little guy is. I kept having to walk down the driveway to the generator to make sure it was still running. In fact, the most annoying noise coming from the set-up is a high-pitched chirping coming from the pressure regulator on the propane line. I suppose it's possible my other propane-powered generator's pressure regulator is making the same noise, but the generator itself is so loud I've never noticed it. Build quality so far is excellent. My only nit is the service panel is a little tricky to remove. I feel like I might break off one of the plastic tabs when bending it back. I probably just need to work out the technique, so will not hold it against Champion.Next week I intend to fully load the unit to charge a large battery pack and will update this review if there's any problem (3000W continuous load vs a rated 3100W capacity while using propane). Absent any trouble there, I'm 100% pleased with this purchase.

[@robinjeffryes2575]

Watching James work on these motors is one of my favorite things to do. It's like getting home and putting some James Taylor music on it relaxes me and I've learned so much keep on trucking James you make the videos I'll watch them.

[@RiverratGoRVing]

Waiting for part two. As always James your efforts to repair are excellent and well done.

[@jimcrews1125]

I’ve recently started collecting marine generators and Military small to medium generators. Olive Drab. Usually says Signal corps or the like. My most interesting generator I’ve resurrected is a marine generator, Onan by Studabaker! She’s a runner! I need help with a carb needle that was broken off and then lost. Carb is a spec A!

[@waynec3121]

Two engine tear downs in one video how lucky am I. Thursdays are becoming my favorite.

[@queensapphire7717]

8:21 that “crack” or breaking a bolt loose is so satisfying

[@KaldekBoch]

At first I thought this was an early release and then I remembered we just came out of DST and America just went into it. Which is great!

[@suesheane3671]

I can't believe how enjoyable this 1st part was . I learned a lot and found it relaxing. Looking forward to part 2.

[@zrkn1]

Impressive build quality on the second engine. Someone will be very fortunate to own it. I love seeing what's inside when the heads come off, Thank You!!!

[@marvinunderwood545]

I enjoy listening to you explain things. Very smooth delivery. I hate hearing “and uhs” and “anyways”. I have yet to hear those from you. Real pleasure watching a pro at work! Thanks

[@Willy12927]

Watching your videos takes me back in time 65 years or so ago, before all the OSHA and liability concerns, when my friends and I would go down to the local car garage and actually go back into the repair bays and talk with the mechanics and watch them work.

[@JefferyAshmore]

My mechanics still allow that.

[@Willy12927]

@@JefferyAshmore That is great. What a learning experience that could be for young people and it would also allow customers to see that you have nothing to hide.

[@patrickthomas6170]

I have 16 hp Vanguard on my snapper mower . Never letting it go after seeing this! Thank u James.

[@jaygee999]

I always enjoy your content -- An intelligent approach to repair !

[@julianstafford7071]

Makes it like a Columbo movie!

[@tacx1]

James, the only problem with checking the torque on “ pre installed” bolts is that the bolts could possibly be to tight. If someone else tightened a 100 ft lb bolt to say 125 or 150, your torque wrench will click at 100, but not tell you that the bolt is to tight.

[@MegaDirtyberty]

So back off the bolt and re torque it?.

[@somerandomguy3868]

I think you made the right call regarding the first block, it could be made to run but you'd always be expecting it to fail, I think you still got a great deal on the vanguard engine, I'm confident that it's issues are sorted out, great job as always

[@vadenfagner6277]

Jim great video once again 👍 I have been a small engine technician for 40 years. The best way I find seating the valves is a veritable speed drill on low speed on the stem, works perfectly. Them plunger style ones will drive you crazy to use.

[@jcondon1]

I agree. Have done that as well. Not as much as I should though.

[@davelowets]

×2 on the drill procedure... The suction cup tool blows.

[@rodneymiddleton9624]

Getting it back in shape and fixing issues created by others. Nice work Jim!!!

[@TheOneTonHammer]

Geez that's a beefy engine. I always thought "industrial grade" was just a marketing ploy, but you can clearly see how much more refined that is over a consumer grade engine. Really looking forward to part 2.

[@lot27a]

Got to love these Vanguard motors. Their reputations are well deserved. James, congrats on 100k+ subscribers, also well deserved. I feel like we should be awarded some edu credits for this masters class.. -Chris

[@jcondon1]

Thanks Chris

[@schrodingerscat8621]

I’ve watched enough of your videos now to see that you sometimes struggle with the suction cup tool when you lap valves. I actually use a different method. I take a piece of vacuum hose that fits tightly onto the stem of the valve, Maybe 6 or 6 inches long, and I cut the head off an old valve and slide that into the other end of the hose. I then put that into the truck of my drill on low setting and use that for lapping from the backside. Works very well for me and allows you to perform the work pretty quick.

[@craigtegeler4677]

Good going James! I am quite happy for you knowing now that you didn't get rooked! I think this Vanguard engine will turn out well as can be now that it is in your hands!

[@elliswatkins812]

I have a Parker brand generator and I have been doing oil changes on it until it come out clear and I never had a problem with it always started first pull and it has been well looked after for my standards

[@douglasthompson2740]

Looks to be pretty easy to move the cross member back toward the axle to get all the room you need to clear the end frame?? Cut the spot welds if any and reweld.

[@johnplump3760]

Hi Jim: I have worked on many projects where you have to take 3 steps back before you move ahead. It takes much patience - which you have. This projects deserves an "ATTABOY"

[@Larry-kh7rw]

Man, that thing looks new!! Except for the damage.

[@estorey1465]

can't wait to see part 2, another great one James

[@scottfirman]

A year ago ,I would have said that was too much to pay for a blown engine, just for parts or rebuild. Not any more. With small engine parts prices sky rocketing, I salvage EVERYTHING from scrap small engines now. A coil for a simple push mower runs WAY over what it did 2 years ago. Saving a blown engine is a good project and well worth the effort. Good video. Nice to see an experienced small engine mechanic working. I generally just swap engines any more. Rebuilding can cost more than a donor unit.

[@grahammctygue724]

Thanks for letting us watch over your shoulder very well done Peace

[@billiehydrick6417]

Thanks James for your educational videos my friend 😊

[@r8118830]

I remember a previous fix by you in which the generator run but was low on power output. That one had a tooth misplaced by one notch. It did not hang up anywhere, it just was underpowered. I learn something every time.

[@kerrygleeson4409]

Fantastic video on this project James look forward to part 2 🦘

[@jonminer9891]

Hi, James. I heard the, "Gotcha!" when you saw the timing issue. At that point I knew it was no holds barred, it would be like new. Without that error on the other guy's fault, you might not have felt like taking this engine back to like-new condition. Now, it will be fun to watch the conclusion. Thanks for sharing! Stay Healthy!

[@alanpecherer5705]

What I find kind of odd about your videos is how many of that particular brand Storm Responder you encounter. OK, maybe they sell them at Costco or Home Depot and so they are the most popular brand, but where I live you'd find maybe 8 or more different brands. Honda, Generac, possibly an Ace Hardware, Makita, some kind of Harbor Freight brand. You do a GREAT job showing your work and explaining your thinking. Bravo!

[@jimjones1678]

About 12 years ago my boss purchased a TroyBilt 4cycle leaf blower. I was the sole operator that was used to clean property 1-2 times per week(30mins). After just one year it would not run any more. This was a mechanical problem with the engine. After the valve clearance was checked engine compression was 40 psi. After searching i found no engine parts available. Not even a short block assembly. A lovely $265 paper weight.

[@ricdenali4213]

It was nice to see the inside of a heavy duty Briggs!

[@justinhansen6085]

Love how you used the tea ball strainer... I use mine for many other things as well. Awesome little tool like so many things with multiple uses no one considers

[@Amy_McFarland]

Bummer, now I must wait for part 2 😂

[@sgtbrown4273]

I know right lol

[@swallowinn4410]

Hello James regarding the first engine with the block damage. I suggest you get a pennatrent inspection kit. Check the damaged area for Cracks if none appear to be spreading from the damaged area, just dress the edge of the break smooth and reassemble the engine. I have repaired 20 or more engines with this type of damage and much worse, all but 2 were permanent repairs. The 2 that failed I suspect were run low on oil again, causing the repeat failure. I hope to see a future video with you trying the repair. Keep the videos coming this viewer enjoys watching your well explained content.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Alves and head cleaned up well and so did the piston face very nice

[@HobbyMotorDK]

One of those projects that just keeps giving. Great video as always 👍👍

[@williamvaughan1218]

I have a rod for one of those trash amuma bore engines. Wasted my money before I learned what trash they are. Glad you found a real engine for it.

[@ni_wink84]

I love a good engine autopsy and got two in this one! Excellent eye spotting that counter balance issue, glad that’s all that it was for the second engine! Great video as always James!

[@leandrolaporta2196]

YESSSSSSSS a James Condon´s Video!!!, man, I enjoy your content so much, and also i learned a lot with you, hell 5 years ago i had no idea about generators and now i repair generators from friends, and my own :) that aside, i really like the way you make your videos, i couldn't explain why but i just can't stop watching your content xD hehe, please keep at it. thank you for being there.

[@nicholasbeck7670]

I have that generator. Reliable so far after 15-years of light use. I will definitely be mindful of oil level/oil changes. Phenomenal tutorial Jim. The magic is in the details, absolutely.

[@jcondon1]

It is a nice engine, as long as you check the oil it should run for a long time.

[@charlesdeens8927]

Binging your videos makes me feel like Ive become a master mechanic.

[@KSMike1]

I’ve got that exact machine, inherited from my father. It was made earlier than yours, under the Generac name. FEMA actually reimbursed him for the purchase after they went with no power for two weeks after one of Kansas City’s infamous ice storms. The only run time on it is from me making sure everything still works about once a year.

[@Lovinflyindrones2022]

Amazing detail to quality I love how u ALWAYS DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME EVEN IF IT COSTS U A FEW MORE DOLLARS. I BET U SLEEP WELL AT NIGHT KNOWING U DID THE RIGHT THING WHEN FIXING EQUIPMENT YOU DONT EVER SKIMP ON FIXING IT PROPERLY BEFORE SELLING TO SOMEONE. THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE QUALITY DETAILED INFORMATIVE GREAT VIDEOS 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@1SmittysGarage]

Great video! Information and detail oriented. Major respect for the integrity and level of quality of work to not "just use the block because it'll work" besides being chippex!! Amazing differences between the two engines. Easy to see the industrial grade of the Vanguard! Blessings and respect!

[@goldiehatman9883]

I think it would be fine to rebuild that engine using the case that has the chip in the lower part of the cylinder. You could show the buyer this video and be upfront about it's condition, give a discount on the engine. Or you could use it for a backup #2 generator for yourself or family member. Doubtful it would ever fail because of the chip and would save it from the metal scrapyard. You have a great way of explaining things and your voice is so easy to listen to, very relaxing and it makes the videos even better.

[@mrobi5797]

Great videos James. Looking forward to partr 2.

[@wildefox1478]

That's great all it was on the replacement engine was the counter balance was out of time, looking forward to part 2, nice work James!

[@davidholder3207]

Quite interesting James. Always good to beat the scammer. You know far more about these engines than I so I'm a bit surprised you didn't check the shell bearings with the engine stripped down.

[@bobsrepairshop]

Learn something new on every video, thanks. Congratulations on over 100,000 subscribers, you've earned it.

[@jcondon1]

Thanks 👍

[@robertcochran7103]

This is a fascinating video to watch. I plan to watch all the videos for this project.

[@michaelferik8060]

Hi James. Been watching your contenet for a while and just subscribed. Got to say there is a lot to be learned thru your videos and I appreciate it. My dad has a couple of generators that have not ran in quite a while but you have motivated me to dive in and check them out. Thanks again.

[@alanb8620]

Hello James, My Dad taught me and we used the same technique in our maachine shop. To check if a valve is seating perfectly after lapping with a compound is lap again with a couple drops of plain water only and, it will polish the valve and seat very shiny where its seating.

[@robertmorin6495]

Nice work finding that knock. I like your method: Pulling the spark plug and giving it a pull. Learning a lot from you.

[@dragonhealer7588]

I am amazed at the quality of your videos (And your workmanship!)😊

[@ron827]

Good job as usual and being observant of the balancer was key.

[@gregsappington9991]

I try to watch every video. I’m so glad you got the lift to make everything easier

[@oldodger]

Can't wait for PART II

[@chriholt]

Wow, it's good to see that Briggs can and does make "industrial" strength engines!

[@bradfader691]

I just got a generator off a fella who stated it was toast. He ran it on a hill with a loose oil cap an the oil drained out slowly until the low oil shutdown tripped an he couldnt get it started again. Got it for 70 bucks. Topped up the oil and it started an ran great. Needless to say always check the oil ;) haha

[@tsmith578]

You can polish those slip rings with plain old news paper. I have used it for repairing alternators many times. It is actually a old fashioned detailers method for polishing chrome.

[@johncourtneidge]

I'm sure that my dad, long passed, would have enjoyed your skill, application and persistence. He had been RAF Ground Crew in India during WWII.

[@m9ovich785]

I wouldn't hesitate to Fix the original Eng. That little bit of missing material doesn't amount to much. Thanks James. Mike M.

[@jcondon1]

I will probably rebuild it. Not much to lose other then $60 for a connecting rod and some time.

[@anthonysummy6944]

Wow! What an engine. You said you've never pulled apart a Vanguard, and now we see why. It's about a bullet proof as it gets. No surprise that, if maintained, that Vanguard will last forever. I have a whole new level of respect for Briggs... Why would anyone buy a Honda when the Vanguard is built 10 times better.

[@philliphall5198]

I agree there very very good engine and I think it’s all b/s should make and stop the cheap intex engine But I really like the GX Honda also

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Wow the Vanguard started second pull but yeah I agree sounds like rod knock

[@JimsNBHomestead]

Sometimes you can save the crankshaft by using muriatic acid to remove the aluminum from the rod journal. We use to do this with racing motors and rod failure was a thing screaming these big motors. Of course they were Honda motors with very expensive parts

[@jcondon1]

Just used muriatic acid last night to clean up that crank and it looks like new and still within spec!

[@JimsNBHomestead]

@@jcondon1 yessir we did quite a few GX270 cranks the splash lube was a little lack at 6000 rpm

[@jerryclayton4616]

Just ran across your video… one suggestion you might want to try when removing the rotor… spray a little WD 40 or penetrating oil down the center hole… take a block of wood place it against the bearing on the end of the stator and give it a sharp rap… that will separate the taper… will not hurt the bearing… 50 years in the Small Engine business with 10 of that as an instructor at our local skill center…

[@jesterr7133]

I love the way that the head is set up on the Vanguard engine. It makes it much easier to work on.

[@jcondon1]

It’s a very nice engine in every aspect

[@russelllmetcalf]

Always a pleasure to watch and every time I learn something new. You are a wealth of information. Thanks for the good work.

[@dannyj5688]

Always look forward to your videos on Thursday....Part 2 can't come fast enough...LOL

[@raymondgarafano8604]

The 91825gs rectifier and brushes assembly, I have that in my Troybilt gen 5500 running watts.

[@GreenJimll]

When I've used heat to free bicycle parts, I've used a hot air solder station. I heave several different nozzles and it's far more controllable than a naked torch flame.

[@martyb3783]

Your videos always help. They are always entertaining and informative. Thanks for making them!

[@merlepatterson]

That was a good catch on the diagnostics James.

[@CapnBubbaa]

Another Great video, I always look forward to your new videos, because they are so well put together, so they remain interesting all they way through...

[@loucinci3922]

I can't drive 55! Two engine tear down. Good video. Thanks for sharing

[@alanjanderson9789]

James that small piece at the bottom of the cyclinder bore won’t hurt a lot of engines that blow up have this type of damage just clean up the sharp edges and send it

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Wow that Vanguard fits in the frame pretty easy

[@2strokeguru]

I have ran engine with same problem for my personal generator and ran non stop 4 days during ice storm

[@scottrothe5947]

Nice trick with the balloon! Really good idea!!

[@THEFALCON58]

Hi James, hows the family, nice job. Iam fine keeping myself busy with my Birmingham roller pigeon and archery here in Perth WA for some years now.

[@paultice610]

Excellent video as always And congratulations on 100,000 subscribers

[@stephanweinhard9220]

Nice Video! Just saw you using mostly the hydrowlig method to remove the rotor from the crank. I often remove the flywheel on the other side of the motor and hit this with a three pound hammer. Usually, the rotor comes off easier than the method with the rotor bold or the hydrowlig method. No risk to damage the rotor with the hammer or tapping the rotor.

[@queensapphire7717]

I “threw a rod” last night myself. I have that exact genny, I added a regulator to the carb, so I can run on gasoline, NG or propane, and being I have a direct gas line for my bbq, connect to my genny and no “juggalo” of gas fills when power lost, and burns way cooler and cleaner. Just change that oil every 40-50 hours of runtime. Those engines are so easy to work on, and much more forgiving that a modern automobile motor.

[@AZVIDS]

Wow, roller coaster ride for sure! Cannot wait for part 2👍👍👍

[@justinvanaulen2478]

Great video Jim. It's always an adventure, but it's usually disgusted as frustration. Looking forward to seeing how this one turns out.

[@RustyNail5856]

James that was a very good video. i enjoyed the video much , i am always learning some thing from your videos. i cant wait for your next one. James you might sleeve the first one. and save the block, just and idea. take care.