Briggs & Stratton 550e Series Service Information

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Cylinder Head
Engines built before Date of Manufacture FEB 02 12 (or 120201xx) were equipped with sealant under the rocker
cover. The cover cannot be removed without damaging it. If servicing the cylinder head on these early units, plan
on replacing the rocker cover, and cylinder head plate. Current production engines are equipped with a gasket for
the rocker cover.
The valve guides and the valve seats are not replaceable. If the guides are worn beyond reject size, replace the
head. If the seats are slightly worn, they can be resurfaced to the extent possible with lapping compound; otherwise
replace the cylinder head.
Tighten the four bolts in the sequence shown (Figure 5) to the specification provided in this APSI.
3
1
2
4
Figure 5
Apply a bead of sealant to the cylinder head plate before placing it on the head. To set the valve clearance, rotate
the crankshaft PTO counterclockwise four turns to seat the valve train parts, then continue turning until the piston
reaches Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke. Both valves will be closed. Slowly turn the crankshaft
again until the piston is .250” (6.35 mm) past TDC. Adjust the valve clearance and tighten the rocker ball set screws
to the specification provided in this APSI.
Using a new gasket, install the rocker cover on the cylinder head plate.
Carburetor and Air Cleaner
Make sure the o-ring is installed on the cylinder side of the carburetor spacer, then fit the spacer into the mounting
bracket. Place the bracket and spacer on the cylinder head with the bracket flange to the top (Figure 6). Install and
tighten the two mounting screws to the specification provided in this APSI.
Not for Reproduction

Briggs & Stratton 550e Series Specifications

General

Displacement	127 cc
Starting System	Recoil
Stroke	45 mm
Fuel Type	Unleaded gasoline
Engine Type	4-stroke, OHV
Torque	5.5 ft-lbs
Cylinder	1