Oil Amount

[MadMike 11]

I'm hoping someone can help me out. In a previous post a member was questioning the amount of oil his older Briggs would hold. Replies suggested that he should open up the engine block and clean out any gunk. Here's the question: By opening up the block do you mean unbolting and lifting the cylinder head assembly from the engine base? I have a 12 hp #300421, it looks like this would be pretty easy but I'm looking for any advice on problems that may arise. I also have been impressed with the positive results members seem to be getting in regards to going to an electronic ingition. Are there any drawbacks to this other than not being original? Thanks and GO WINGS!!! Mike Z. (MadMike)

[RayS 80]

they are suppose to hold 2 quarts, I have had the pan off of mine before and it was clean and all I have ever been able to get in them is 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 quarts.

[HubbardRA 20]

My advice is to go by the level of the oil, and don't worry about the volume. Additional volume will help cool the engine, but you never want to overfill an engine. Overfilling puts the oil level up onto the crank which will increase the pressure and the amount of oil slung inside the engine, causing seals and piston rings to leak. Fill it to the "full" mark and no higher. The dipper on the rod cap is the only part of the rotating assembly that is supposed to come into contact with the oil in the crankcase. Rod H.

[Dutch 4]

Just remember ANYTHING could have happened since the tractor was built. Engine or sump replaced = different oil capacity. Dipstick switched = false "full" reading. Gunk in sump = less liquid capacity.

[dlcentral 1]

You dont have to take pan apart,just tilt trac to low side on oil drain drain out oil,get a can of Brakeklean de-greaser[about 3 bucks] squirt it in oil drain till it comes out clear. Most sediment I ever saw here was less than 1/8 in. not a problem at all,,