Removing B&S 303777 starter question


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Old 09-30-17, 03:05 PM
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Removing B&S 303777 starter question

Hello,
Encore Z42 with Briggs 16HP Vanguard engine. Starter gear is toast. Do I have to remove the flywheel to get to the starter mounting bolts? It seems to be that or remove the gas tank which I am not sure I could get to them if I did that anyway. In doing research some said removing the motor is the easiest way which seems like a lot of work for two bolts to me. All the videos seem to be the kind where you can see the mounting bolts. How do you get that stupid thing off? Thanks
 
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Old 09-30-17, 04:57 PM
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I don't have that same exact engine; but most of the time, I just loosen the Dipstick and then remove two 5/16" screws holding a plastic Pinion Drive Gear cover that's snugged in behind the Dipstick.

Once these screws are removed, the Pinion Drive Gear cover can be slid from behind the Dipstick and the two 1/2" or 9/16" bolts will be visible.

If you have to entirely remove the Starter, the cable from the Solenoid to the Starter will also have to be removed. (7/16").

The Pinion Gear may just need cleaning so that it freely slides up (engages) to mesh with the flywheel, and quickly disengages (slides back down) as soon as the Flywheel begins moving faster than the pinion. No grease or dirt gathering lubricant should be used in this area.
 
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Old 09-30-17, 05:06 PM
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Teeth are gone on the Pinion Gear-it's a spinner. I'll remove the cover to see what I find but sure couldn't feel any bolts behind it.
Thanks for the reply.
 
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Old 09-30-17, 05:34 PM
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Maybe Cheese will come along soon I think he has addressed this issue before. Have a good one. Geo
 
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Old 09-30-17, 09:33 PM
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One of the bolts should be easy to get to but the other can be tricky on the vanguards. I use a 1/4" extension with a swivel and a 1/2" socket. Sometimes I have to tap it with a hammer to get it on the bolt. The bolts also accept a torx bit (t-30 I think but not positive), so you might be able to get that in there if you can't do it with the socket. I don't think I ever had to remove the engine or flywheel to do it.
 
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Old 10-01-17, 04:04 AM
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Thanks Cheese, I'll try your tips.
 
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Old 10-01-17, 01:29 PM
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Heat Shield?

Do I have to remove the heat shield to get to the mounting bolts?
 
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Old 10-02-17, 12:58 AM
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I don't remember. I think so.
 
 

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