Briggs and Stratton Leaking Oil From Valve Cover [Causes and Fixes]

Briggs and Stratton engines are some of the most popular and widely used engines in small outdoor power equipment, such as lawn mowers, generators, and pressure washers. While these engines are generally reliable and durable, one common problem that can occur is oil leaks from the valve cover.

This can be a frustrating issue for homeowners, as it can lead to decreased engine performance and even damage if not addressed in a timely manner. In this article, we will explore the causes of oil leaks from the valve cover in Briggs and Stratton engines, as well as how to diagnose and fix this problem.

Causes of Oil Leaks From Valve Cover

There are several possible causes for oil leaks from the valve cover in a Briggs and Stratton engine.

Faulty or Damaged Gasket

One common cause is a faulty or damaged gasket on the valve cover. The gasket is responsible for sealing the valve cover to the engine block, and if it is not properly sealing, oil can escape and cause a leak.

Damaged Valve Cover

Another possible cause is a defect or damage to the valve cover itself. If the valve cover is bent, dented, or has any other physical damage, it may not be able to properly contain the oil, leading to a leak.

Oil Leaks From the Valve Cover

Another possible cause of oil leaks from the valve cover is a problem with the oil seal or oil pan. The oil seal is responsible for sealing the gap between the crankshaft and the oil pan, and if it is damaged or faulty, it can allow oil to escape.

Oil Pan is Damaged

Similarly, if the oil pan is damaged or has a crack, it can also cause oil to leak out. In order to properly diagnose and fix an oil leak from the valve cover, it will be necessary to inspect the engine and identify the source of the leak.

Symptoms of Oil Leak From Valve Cover

There are several symptoms that can indicate an oil leak from the valve cover in a Briggs and Stratton engine.

Visible Oil on the Engine

One of the most obvious symptoms is the presence of visible oil on the engine or under the mower. If you notice that there is oil on the engine or on the ground where the mower is stored, it is possible that you have an oil leak.

Oil Leak From the Valve Cover

Another symptom of an oil leak from the valve cover is a decrease in oil levels. If you are checking the oil level in your mower and notice that it is lower than normal, it could be a sign that oil is leaking from the engine.

Decreased Engine Performance

In addition to visible oil and decreased oil levels, an oil leak from the valve cover can also lead to decreased engine performance or overheating. If the engine is not getting enough oil, it can cause it to run poorly or even stall.

Engine Can Overheat

Additionally, if the oil level gets too low, the engine can overheat, which can cause serious damage. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the engine.

How to Diagnose and Fix Oil Leak From Valve Cover

If you suspect that your Briggs and Stratton engine is experiencing an oil leak from the valve cover, there are several steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem. The first step is to inspect the engine and identify the source of the leak. This will typically involve looking for any visible signs of oil on the engine or under the mower, as well as checking the oil level to see if it is lower than normal.

Once you have identified the source of the leak, the next step is to replace the faulty gasket or damaged valve cover. If the gasket is the problem, you can simply remove the old gasket and replace it with a new one. If the valve cover itself is damaged or defective, you will need to replace it.

If you are not comfortable performing this type of repair yourself, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic. They will have the knowledge and tools necessary to properly diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring that your lawn mower is running smoothly and efficiently again.

Prevention of Oil Leaking in Your Mower

Here are a few additional tips for dealing with oil leaks from the valve cover in a Briggs and Stratton engine:

Use the Right Type of Oil

It is important to use the correct type of oil in your Briggs and Stratton engine to ensure proper lubrication and prevent leaks. Make sure to check the owner’s manual or consult with a professional to determine the correct type of oil to use.

Check and Replace the Oil Filter Regularly

The oil filter helps to remove contaminants from the engine oil, and if it becomes clogged, it can cause oil leaks. Make sure to check and replace the oil filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.

Keep an Eye on the Oil Level

Regularly checking the oil level in your engine can help you catch oil leaks early on. Make sure to check the oil level at least once a month and add more oil if necessary.

Use a High-quality Gasket

When replacing the gasket on the valve cover, it is important to use a high-quality gasket to ensure a proper seal. Avoid using aftermarket gaskets, as they may not be made to the same standards as genuine Briggs and Stratton parts.

Consider Using a Sealant

If you are having trouble getting the gasket to seal properly, you may want to consider using a sealant to help create a better seal. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and only use a sealant recommended for use on your specific engine.

Editor’s Note

It is possible for a Briggs and Stratton engine to leak oil from the valve cover for a variety of reasons. One possible cause could be a faulty or damaged gasket on the valve cover. If the gasket is not properly sealing the valve cover to the engine block, oil can escape and cause a leak.

Another possible cause could be a problem with the valve cover itself. If the valve cover is damaged or has a defect, it may not be able to properly contain the oil, leading to a leak.

It is also possible that the leak is not actually coming from the valve cover, but rather from a different part of the engine. For example, if the engine has a faulty oil seal or a damaged oil pan, it could be causing oil to leak out. In order to properly diagnose and fix the problem, it will be necessary to carefully inspect the engine and identify the source of the leak.

If you are not familiar with engine repair, it may be best to take your lawn mower to a professional mechanic. They will have the knowledge and tools necessary to properly diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring that your lawn mower is running smoothly and efficiently again.

Also Read – What Happens If You Hammer Into A Wire

Conclusion

In conclusion, oil leaks from the valve cover in Briggs and Stratton engines can be a frustrating problem for homeowners. However, by understanding the causes of this issue and taking the necessary steps to diagnose and fix it, it is possible to prevent further damage to the engine and keep your lawn mower running smoothly.

Some common causes of oil leaks from the valve cover include faulty or damaged gaskets, defects or damage to the valve cover itself, and problems with the oil seal or oil pan. To fix the problem, it may be necessary to replace the faulty gasket or damaged valve cover, or consult a professional mechanic.

It is important to address oil leaks from the valve cover as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the engine, and to perform regular maintenance and inspections to prevent future issues.