Stupid question...better that no question..

old shed finds

Well-Known Member
#1
Briggs engines how hot can we run them? The mini bike is a Bird 2hp Briggs 1971 low use engine .... But on these 91+ degree day the engine is very hot...... Air through the shrouds almost burns the leg....bike is geared low and engine pulls it good but don't want to ruin a 1971 flathead Briggs...
 

Harquebus

Well-Known Member
#2
Figure about 300-400° on the cylinder, especially around the exhaust port is about normal.

The best thing about these engines is the forced cooling--that blower is always running.
Make sure your cooling fins are clean and clear and make sure your oil is fairly new and not
too dirty. The dirtier and thicker it gets with age, the less it cools (and lubes) the engine.

I finally got one of those infrared thermometers with the laser on it too. Works a treat.
 

Harquebus

Well-Known Member
#3
I read somewhere that the blower shroud on a Briggs should never get so hot that you can't put your hand on it.
If it is, that's a symptom of overheating.

That's while it's running of course. After you turn it off the surface temperature will rise considerably
with no air flow running over it.
 
#4
This is where a quality lube oil comes into play. When in doubt go full synthetic.
Rev the engine and the moving air flow should be felt and blow out a light candle held an inch from the cooling air exit.
If not check an exploded view parts of your engine and see if a part is missing from the cylinder cooling ducting.
 
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