Model # of 18.5 hp
 

Hey guys, I'm kinda new to this engine thing but I have a B&S 18.5hp that I think is gonna have to have something done to the governor. When I go to look for a service manual, they need the engine model #. I looked on B&S site and my # is stamped on the ohv cover but it doesn't match the format on the website. Mine is stamped: 31Q777 0305E1 040826ZD. The website shows the format of XXXXXX-XXXX-XX. Could someone tell me if the first 6 digits is the model #?
After I figure that out, I'm probably going to need more help as I need to adjust the valves because it is really hard to turn over when trying to start.
Also it won't idle down and the mechanic told me it was the governor that needed to be replaced and it would be cheaper to replace the engine.
Any help would sure be appreciated.
Thanks, John
Cub Cadet LT1018 42"

I think that is an Intek engine. This looks like what you need but you may want to call them first.

http://tewarehouse.com/273521?sc=2&category=468

Thanks for the reply. I forgot to say that this is a single cylinder engine. Would it say what kind of engine it is somewhere on the engine?
I'm not having much luck finding a repair manual with the model number entered like it is stamped on the OHV cover.
There is a bar code sticker on fan housing. It has a bar code then the numbers
31Q7770305E1 then another bar code and 040826ZD07547.

Thanks, John

That engine was probably built for Cub for that tractor so it may be hard to find the exact manual. I typed in 310777 and came up with what probably looked like what you have. Do a search on that and see if it looks like your engine.

I did some research, then I actually read all the way through your post. Sorry, I had just skimmed it. The operator and parts books are NBD to get, but you'll more than likely end up with a manual that covers a bunch of motors to get the one you need.

Lets start with this. The model you listed: 31Q777 0305E1 040826ZD. But B&S needs XXX-XXXX-XX. SO you use 31Q777-0305-E1. Don't worry about the 040826ZD that basically says it's in a Cub Cadet. Now, after reading your issue, I highly doubt you have a governor problem. See, when you idle down, you are forcing the throttle closed, and completely bypassing the governor. IF the governor is still trying to control the motor, it's not set right. I seriously doubt it has anything wrong with the governor. Time and time again, I'm disappointed with diagnosis' of said small engine "mechanics". Also, did you check to see that none of the linkage is binding or that the idle stop screw isn't too far out? Here's a good test. Set the throttle on the dash just above idle. Then (motor OFF) reach down and "flip" the throttle on the motor. Does it go wide open then close? Does it seem "stiff"? It should flop around very easily. If it doesn't, it's binding.

Researching that engine, I also see a lot of posts on forums about failed head gaskets. This could also be your idle problem. If it can get air into the cylinder by-passing the carb (Vacuum leak) then that can cause it to idle fast. I'd suggest a compression check. Adjusting the valves, like you said is also a good idea. Perhaps the compression release isn't working properly.

:Morning: I just ran 31Q777-0305-E1 on Parts Tree an the IPL came up. :American Flag 1:

Thanks everyone for the info.
J-Mech, I'm going to check the throttle for binding and then set the valve clearances. It just runs at full throttle all the time.
Also, how can I tell the intake from exhaust valves to set the right clearances?
I am going to order a B&S repair manual. I think the part# is 276781.
It will probably be tomorrow b4 I can get to work on it.
Thanks everyone for making my job a lot easier. I'll let u know how it turns out. (and probably have a lot more questions).
Thanks again,
John

When you say it runs at full throttle...... I hope you mean governed RPM, and not open RPM. :bigthink:

If it runs at WOT, did you check to see if the cable is working? That all the linkage is attached? IF the throttle cable is working, and the governor is bad, you would still be able to achieve idle, so I don't understand what's going on. I am guessing that you have a broken throttle cable, or it's bound up.

On the valve thing. It's really simple. The exhaust valve is the valve closest to the exhaust manifold (muffler). The intake valve is the one closest to the intake (carburetor).