I have a 2000 Craftsman riding lawn mower with a 16.5 HP B & S OHV engine. Last week I think I may have broken the crank or a piston or something. I am not sure if is cheaper to get this engine rebuilt, or just replace with a new engine or what. Is this something I could possibly rebuild myself? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Robert B, November 2006

I have a model 31S777 rider mower that acts like it has a decompession lock can you help me

Kurt Degen, April 2007

It would depend on what broke, and what other damage it did.
A broken connecting rod or crankshaft often hits the inside of the block hard enough to crack it. Most often you'll find cracks right where the cylinder rounds into the block. If it's not cracked you can rebuild it yourself. Get a copy of the Briggs and Stratton Single Cylinder OHV Repair Manual from just about any Briggs dealer, or you can order it online from Briggs. It will have all the information you need. You can also download the IPL (Illistrated Parts List) from Briggs website. You'll need the Model Number and Type Number to get the correct list.

Rick, November 2006