pfrederi 18,696 #1 Posted July 28, 2018 Especially on the three little screws that hold the air cleaner base to the carb. Only found two installed when I tore her down...found the third in the intake port...didn't get past the valve but obviously bounced around for long time.... 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lynnmor 7,833 #2 Posted July 28, 2018 I always use threadlocker on those screws, but still I worry. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sarge 3,465 #3 Posted July 29, 2018 I switch all mine out to allen socket head cap screws with internal tooth lock washers - stops the issue of them getting loose with the weight of the heavy air cleaner and far easier to install/remove versus those straight slot OEM screws. I had a Briggs 18hp Twin II engine lose one of it's air cleaner screws and put it into an intake valve, losing one cylinder while blowing snow. Drove it all the way home, removed the head, found the screw and got it out - reassembled the engine with new screws/locks and went right back to work with it, no damage other than some light marks on the piston/head. Got lucky, I've seen some engines destroy a valve and seat pretty quickly, just depends on how hard the screw is. A bit of blue locktite isn't a bad idea, either. Sarge 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
