Resurrecting a 1978 21" Snapper mower

Johnspi

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Hi, I have just been given an old Snapper self propelled mower which according to the Briggs and Stratton Code dates to 1978. I would like to get it going and hopefully use it on my block. I believe it has not been used for a long time and despite putting new fuel in, it will not start. At present it has a Champion CJ8 spark plug in but I am not sure if this is the correct plug as there seems to be no spark when I take it out and place it against the mower body. I do not have a manual for the mower and have little experience working with 4 stroke mowers. In Australia we were often brought up with the trusted and ever reliable Victa 2 stroke mowers. I would appreciate any advice and direction in getting this old but world renowned American workhorse going again.
 

aandpdan

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Can you post the model/type codes so we know what engine it has?

The CJ8 may be correct. You should see a spark regardless. Your engine may have points, under the flywheel. If they get slightly corroded, even from non-use, you won't get a spark. You could try lightly sanding them OR replace the coil with the electronic version.
 

milkie62

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More than likely has points.Also if the flywheel key is sheared you will have no spark.The key on those is aluminum.Points,condenser and new key sometimes came as a kit. An easy replacement should they need replacing.But to check the key you will have to take the starter assembly off.They have a fancy tool for it but you can use a soft brass punch against one of the tabs that is along the outside of it .There are either 2 or 4. Give a shout if you need any help.Them old B&S I assume 92000 series engine just ran and ran and ran.
 

Johnspi

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Can you post the model/type codes so we know what engine it has?

The CJ8 may be correct. You should see a spark regardless. Your engine may have points, under the flywheel. If they get slightly corroded, even from non-use, you won't get a spark. You could try lightly sanding them OR replace the coil with the electronic version.

The Briggs and Stratton motor Model no. is 130902 the Type no. is 0559 01 and the Code no. is 78011106. The mower chassis Model no. CV212P. Thanks
 

milkie62

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Also points and condenser were std up to around the 8 hp motors.Soft key was also the same.
 

Johnspi

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:smile:
Also points and condenser were std up to around the 8 hp motors.Soft key was also the same.

Thanks for this information. I am intrigued about the "soft key" and have no idea what I am looking for or what it's function is. I went onto the Briggs and Stratton homepage in the hope I could download a manual with an engine diagram. Unfortunately it didn't want to accept the engine no.s on my mower. I'll try and telephone them to see what the problem is and to clarify if a manual does exist. I would like to start working on the mower in about 2 weeks.
 

aandpdan

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When you put the engines numbers into the Briggs site, use: 130902-0559-99. The -99 lists all versions.

130902-0559-01

Good luck.
 

milkie62

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You may also want to try ebay and use Briggs and stratton single cylinder engine. The key is in the slot of the flywheel under the recoil starter.
 
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