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Briggs & Stratton Engine Blocks / Crankcases

Briggs & Stratton Engine Blocks / Crankcases
Briggs & Stratton engine blocks and crankcases form the foundation of small engine construction, housing the crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft, and oil system. The lawn mower engine block features precision-machined bearing surfaces, cylinder bores, and mounting points for external components. Most Briggs crankcases use cast aluminum construction with integral cylinder bores or cast iron cylinder sleeves for durability. The crankcase cover seals the lower assembly and contains the oil sump. Proper sealing with crankcase gaskets prevents oil leaks and maintains crankcase vacuum. We hold Briggs & Stratton engine blocks and crankcases in stock and sell worldwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cracked engine block or crankcase be repaired?
Minor cracks in non-structural areas can sometimes be repaired using JB Weld, epoxy, or aluminum welding for temporary fixes. Clean the area thoroughly with solvent to remove all oil before applying repair material. However, cracks near bearing surfaces, camshaft bores, or main structural areas typically require complete crankcase replacement. Most mechanics recommend replacement over repair as welding cast aluminum requires TIG equipment and subsequent machining to restore proper tolerances. For connecting rod damage that punches holes through crankcase walls, replacement is more cost-effective than extensive welding and repair work.
What causes oil to blow out of the crankcase breather or into the air filter?
Excessive crankcase pressure from worn piston rings or cylinder wear forces oil through the breather system. Blown head gaskets allow combustion gases into the crankcase, creating pressure that pushes oil out. Overfilled oil levels or fuel dilution from stuck carburetor float needles raise oil level above normal, causing oil to reach breather passages. Clogged breather assemblies or failed breather disc valves prevent proper crankcase vacuum maintenance. The fiber disc inside the breather must move freely—if gummed up or damaged, it cannot regulate crankcase pressure properly.
How do I replace a crankcase cover or crankcase gasket?
Drain all oil and remove the engine from equipment. Remove external components blocking access including PTO pulleys, oil pump plate at the bottom, and any electrical connections. Remove all crankcase cover bolts evenly to prevent warping. Use a plastic scraper to gently pry the cover—never use metal tools that damage sealing surfaces. Check for any keys stuck in the crankshaft keyway that prevent separation. Clean both mating surfaces completely, removing all old gasket material. Install the new gasket aligned properly, then torque bolts in a crisscross pattern per service manual specifications.
What's the difference between aluminum and cast iron engine blocks?
Aluminum blocks are lighter and dissipate heat better but wear faster and are more susceptible to damage from thrown rods or impact. Cast iron blocks or cylinder sleeves provide superior wear resistance and longevity but add weight. Many Briggs engines use aluminum blocks with cast iron cylinder sleeves combining light weight with durability. Aluminum cannot be honed or bored multiple times like cast iron—Briggs recommends replacement over resurfacing. When replacing pistons and rings in aluminum blocks, Briggs specifies using standard-size rings if within tolerance or oversizing to 0.010", 0.020", or 0.030" if damaged.
When should I replace the engine block versus buying a complete engine?
Replace the block when cracks near bearing surfaces, severe scoring in cylinder bores, or damaged mounting points make repair impossible. Consider costs—if you need a block, crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft, and gaskets, a short block or complete replacement engine often costs less than individual components. Short blocks include the assembled crankcase, crankshaft, camshaft, connecting rod, and piston. For unique or discontinued engine models, sourcing a used block from the same model series provides the most economical solution. Complete engines make sense when multiple internal components are damaged or worn beyond specifications.