I remember the first time my Briggs & Stratton lawn mower engine started revving too high, it threw me off completely. The mower was surging, almost like it had a mind of its own, and I realized something was up with the governor. For those who’ve never adjusted a governor before, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds, and doing it correctly can restore your mower’s performance without needing a mechanic. Let’s dive into the steps for adjusting the governor on your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower so you can get back to smooth mowing.
Keep your kids safe online with SentryPC – Monitor, filter, and control their computer use anytime, anywhere! Get started today
What Is a Governor and Why Adjust It?
The governor on a lawn mower regulates the engine’s speed by controlling the throttle. It keeps the engine running at a consistent RPM, preventing over-revving or slow performance. If the engine is running too fast or too slow, it’s time to adjust the governor.
Adjusting it might seem complicated, but with a few tools and the right steps, you can fine-tune the engine speed yourself.
Tools You’ll Need:
- A flathead screwdriver
- A socket wrench set
- Gloves (optional, but recommended for safety)
- Safety goggles (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjust the Governor
1. Turn Off the Engine and Disconnect the Spark Plug
Safety first! Before you begin working on the mower, always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug. This ensures that the engine won’t accidentally start while you’re making adjustments.
2. Locate the Governor Arm and Shaft
The governor system is typically located near the carburetor and connected to the throttle. On a Briggs & Stratton engine, you’ll see a governor arm that links to the throttle through a spring. The governor shaft is a small, vertical rod that controls the arm’s movement.
3. Loosen the Governor Arm Clamp
Using a socket wrench, locate the clamp bolt where the governor arm connects to the governor shaft. Loosen this bolt slightly, just enough to allow the governor arm to rotate on the shaft. This is an important step to properly align the governor.
4. Rotate the Governor Shaft
Now, with the governor arm clamp loosened:
- Turn the governor shaft clockwise (on Briggs & Stratton engines) to its maximum position. This step sets the internal governor mechanism to its high-speed position.
5. Adjust the Governor Arm
While holding the governor shaft in its maximum clockwise position, manually adjust the governor arm so that it aligns with the throttle linkage. This positioning ensures that the governor will accurately control the engine speed based on the throttle settings.
6. Tighten the Governor Arm Clamp
Once the governor arm is correctly aligned, tighten the clamp bolt with your socket wrench. Be sure to secure it firmly, but don’t overtighten, as this could damage the bolt or strip the threads.
7. Reconnect the Spark Plug
With the governor adjustment complete, reconnect the spark plug and prepare to test the engine.
8. Test the Engine
Start the engine and observe its performance. The engine should now run at a consistent speed without excessive surging or revving too high. If the engine speed is still not ideal, you may need to repeat the adjustment process, ensuring the governor arm is properly aligned.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Engine is Still Over-Revving
- If the engine is still running too fast, double-check the governor shaft’s position. Make sure you turned it clockwise to its maximum position before aligning the governor arm.
The Engine is Running Too Slow
- If the engine seems sluggish, the governor arm may not be aligned properly. Loosen the clamp again and carefully repeat the adjustment process.
Uneven Engine Speed (Surging)
- Surging can occur if the throttle linkage or springs are not functioning correctly. Check the linkage for kinks or wear and make sure the springs are properly attached to maintain tension.
Preventative Maintenance for Governor Adjustment
To avoid frequent adjustments, keep your engine running smoothly by performing regular maintenance:
- Clean the Carburetor: A dirty carburetor can affect the governor’s performance, leading to engine speed issues.
- Inspect the Governor Springs: Over time, the springs connected to the governor arm can wear out or lose tension. Replace these as necessary.
- Check for Loose Parts: Vibration from the engine can cause bolts or linkages to loosen over time, leading to inconsistent performance.
Why You Should Keep an Eye on the Governor
The governor is crucial in maintaining your engine’s longevity. Without proper adjustment, you risk over-revving, which can lead to serious engine damage. On the other hand, if the engine runs too slow, it may struggle to power through thick grass or challenging terrain.
By keeping your governor in check, you ensure that your Briggs & Stratton mower runs efficiently for years to come.
Quick Summary of Steps
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Turn off engine, disconnect plug | Ensure safety by disconnecting the spark plug. |
| Locate governor system | Find the governor arm and shaft near the carburetor. |
| Loosen governor arm clamp | Use a socket wrench to loosen the clamp slightly. |
| Rotate governor shaft clockwise | Turn it to its maximum position for proper alignment. |
| Align governor arm | Move the arm to match the throttle linkage. |
| Tighten the clamp | Secure the clamp firmly but not overly tight. |
| Reconnect spark plug | Prepare the mower for testing by reconnecting the plug. |
| Test engine | Start the engine and adjust as needed based on performance. |
By following these steps, you’ll have full control over your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower’s engine speed. It’s a simple process that can make a world of difference in the mower’s performance!