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14.5 HP Briggs Leaking Oil

10 years ago

I have a Briggs Vangard 14.5 HP on an old Snapper riding Lawn Tractor. When I started it last week after sitting for about 2 months, it dumped a bunch of oil out of the lower seal, just above the drive pulley and electric clutch assembly.

Last night, I removed the engine from the tractor frame and I am planning to remove the clutch and pulley. I then plan to remove the bottom portion of the case and inspect and replace the oil seal and also inspect the crankshaft for any abnormal wear.

I would like to know how to get the electric clutch off the output shaft of the engine. I have 2 large gear pullers that I can use but want to make sure I follow the correct procedure so I do not mess up the pulleys.

I would also like your thoughts on what I should inspect before I put the engine back together. The tractor is a 1996 model and I use it for pulling a spreader and sprayer. It puffs a little blue smoke on start up but runs fine except for the recent oil issue.

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Jerry

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Comments (4)

bill_kapaun
10 years ago
IF it's not too late, smell the old oil for the presence of gasoline.

Typically, you use an impact wrench to remove the nut on the PTO and if you're lucky, it falls off.
Jerry
Original Author
10 years ago
Bill, thanks for the reply.

The oil does not appear to have a gasoline odor to it.

I used an impact to remove the bolt that holds the clutch on the PTO shaft. The clutch is still stuck on the shaft. Will try one of my gear pullers tonight and see if it will move with light pressure. I have looked the shaft area over and do not see any set screws.

Will report back in with results later tonight.

Jerry
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Jerry
Original Author
10 years ago
Bill,

Just went out and opened the container that I drained the oil into. Yes, it has a very strong odor of gasoline to it.

Thanks for making me check again. When I drained it, I had also drained the gas tank so the garage probably had plenty of fumes to go around.

Jerry
bill_kapaun
10 years ago
IF you drained a lot of gas into the crankcase, it could do 2 things.
1. Thin the oil considerably.
2. Build up pressure to force oil out.
That would depend on how high the "oil" level got above the full mark.

You do need to address the leaking carb needle & seat.

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