Briggs 31XXXX Rocker Studs

[Mek-a-nik]

I've run into several of these, in late model engines, that back out and the valve doesn't work. It can be exhaust or intake. Is there a problem with these that anyone knows of? (Verticals, on tractors.)

[StarTech]

The only thing I can think of is when the last valve adjustment done it might have been loosen slightly if the locking screw was loosen without holding the adjuster nut. These rocker studs are to be torqued to 100 in-lbs. I have only seen one here that was loose but the valve cover had previously removed. I know this fact as it was not still sealed with the sealer. I was luckily enough that the valve cap was still laying in the valve cover.

The only service note on the Briggs Power Portal about the head was the main head bolts torque change.

[Mek-a-nik]

The ones I've seen have the factory silicone on the valve covers. Maybe it's just a streak I'm on. I'll see some things regularly, and then not see them for a while.
Haven't done a Briggs head gasket since last year. Got one for this Friday. BTW, what was the torque changed to? ( 31xxxx engine. ) I read that here, and should have recorded it.

[StarTech]

Could be, things do come in batches.

Head gasket torque>
Covers 210000, 280000, 310000, 330000 with the following gasket style.


They increased it from 220 in-lbs to 250 in-lbs. I think they did it help cut down on head gaskets blowing between the cylinder and the valve galley but that is just my guess.

[Mek-a-nik]

Thank you indeed, Mr. StarFire1.