Just blew the engine in my riding mower. The engine is a Briggs and Stratton I/C SyncroBalanced 12.5 HP. Model is 289707 and Type is 0154-01. I understand this engine is no longer made, and that a replacement engine needs to be carefully chosen to make sure it will fit and match up with the starter, mounting holes, etc. There are two engines presently on eBay which look like they could fit. Both are B & S with one identified as Model 28R707-NTML ( 13 HP). The other is 12.5 HP and listed as Type 1179-E1. Would either of these work or do I need to ask for more information? Local repair shops want $ 850.00 to fix so I may have to buy a new mower if I cannot find a reasonably priced replacement motor.

I have a Sears Cradftsman lawn tractor, 21hp with a B&S engine, model number 461707, type 0147-E1. I change oil and maintain oil levels carefully. It is 10 years old and in excellent condition. Lately it has developed a loud tapping noise when running. It could be that it has blown a connecting rod small or large bearing, or it could be a valve(s) out of clearance. I want to check the valve clearances first to rule that out as they have never been checked in the 10 years I have had it. I do not believe this is an OHV engine. How do I get at the valves to check adjustment. Is it at the top of each of the two cylinder heads? What is the recommended clearance? I have tried looking the engine up in a variety or manuals but the various engines have unrelated names, and I do not know the name of the type of engine I have so I can go to the correct manual. They seem to have names like L Head, and Vanguard. What is the name of mine? Any other advice? Thanks.