AboutJohn C. Bridgers Sr. Expertise Small Engine Service Center Co-Owner - ATVs, Mowers, Trimmers, Snow throwers, and Many Other Small Engine Operated Equipment. I can answer questions pertaining to Most Lawn and Garden Equipment, e.g. riders, tillers, trimmers, cement mixers, chainsaws, etc. I have been repairing small engines for 34 years. Briggs & Stratton, Tecumseh, Kohler, Lawn Boy, Stihl, Poulan, Mac, and Honda; to name a few.
Experience
Past/Present clients I have worked on small air/water cooled engines for 34 Years. I performed warranty work for Lowes of Wilson and other retailers in the area. I Own a Yard Maintenance and Certified Small Engine Repair Service Center.
Question I have a cub cadet bought in 204--warranty died last year of course. I have never had a problem with the engine--ticked like a clock. I was mowing along with not a miss or bobble when I shut her down to move a vehicle. Jumped back on and the engine turned freely (seemed too freely) but would not hit a lick. Pulled the choke and got a couple of small backfires only. Pulled the plug today and checked the compression only to find NO compression. Has anyone encountered this problem? Valve? I have never torn down one of these engines but may be about too. Anyone have any ideas or a path to an online engine repair manual? Oh yea--its a briggs & stratton 18.5 ELS 500
Answer Hello Frank:
I Have Seen this Problem Several Times Over the Past 5 or So Years, but it is Not a Common Problem. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Numbers you Sent are the Series Numbers. Sometimes I can Use the Mower Model Numbers to Locate the Engine Model Numbers. It Sounds Like the Flywheel Key May have Sheared because the Flywheel Nut Loosened. That is a Good Case Scenario. It can be a Valve Spring Keeper Broke or Jumped Of the Valve Stem. A Dropped Valve Seat and Several Other Causes. The Engine Model Will Assist me in the Suggestion I give you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting you Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.
