If you’re working with small engines, especially Briggs and Stratton, then understanding the head gasket chart is absolutely essential. A failed head gasket can lead to engine misfires, oil burning, or excessive exhaust smoke, making it essential to choose the right replacement part.
In this post, we’ll explore the importance of head gaskets, how to identify the correct one for your engine, and provide a detailed chart of head gaskets for common Briggs & Stratton models.
Briggs and Stratton Head Gasket Chart
Single Cylinder Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09P702 | 3.5–5 HP | 794114 | For push mowers |
| 10T502 | 5 HP | 794152 | OHV, aluminum gasket |
| 12H802 | 5 HP | 272163 | Classic vertical shaft |
| 124T02 | 4.5–6.75 HP | 796584 | OHV series |
| 126T02 | 6.5 HP | 794114 | Same as 09P702 |
| 128M02 | 6.75 HP | 796584 | For newer OHV push mowers |
| 122T05 | 6.5 HP | 796584 | DOV engine |
| 110P02 | 3.5 HP | 794152 | Common walk-behind mower engine |
V-Twin Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40H777 | 20 HP | 699168 | V-Twin, vertical shaft |
| 44N677 | 24 HP | 796584 | Intek series |
| 49R977 | 26 HP | 794152 | For lawn tractors |
| 44P777 | 22 HP | 796584 | OHV, high torque |
| 445877 | 23 HP | 795890 | V-Twin Intek OHV |
| 446777 | 24 HP | 792368 | ELS series |
| 40N877 | 23 HP | 796584 | With AVS system |
| 44L777 | 24 HP | 796584 | For zero-turn mowers |
Related Briggs & Stratton Valve Clearance Chart(For All Models)
OHV (Overhead Valve) Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33R877 | 19.5 HP | 794114 | OHV single cylinder |
| 31R907 | 17.5 HP | 796584 | OHV vertical shaft |
| 33S877 | 20 HP | 796584 | ELS model |
| 31P977 | 17 HP | 794152 | For riding mowers |
| 331877 | 19 HP | 794114 | Common in riding tractors |
| 33T877 | 20 HP | 796584 | Professional series engine |
| 33M877 | 19.5 HP | 796584 | Intek OHV |
| 31G777 | 17 HP | 796584 | AVS-equipped engine |
Horizontal Shaft Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20G114 | 6.5 HP | 791884 | Horizontal shaft for pressure washers |
| 15T202 | 5.5 HP | 792383 | OHV horizontal shaft |
| 12S432 | 5 HP | 272163 | Recoil start type |
| 20H114 | 6.75 HP | 791884 | Used in tillers and sprayers |
| 15C112 | 6 HP | 791892 | Horizontal crankshaft |
| 135202 | 5 HP | 272163 | Classic horizontal shaft |
| 126432 | 6.5 HP | 796584 | OHV, cast iron sleeve |
| 210432 | 10 HP | 271866 | Industrial and commercial applications |
Related Kohler Valve Clearance Chart(For All Models Series)
Cast Iron Sleeve Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 219907 | 11 HP | 271866 | Heavy-duty horizontal shaft |
| 243431 | 14 HP | 271866 | Commercial mower engine |
| 303447 | 16 HP | 272475 | Vanguard series |
| 326437 | 18 HP | 272475 | With oil filter |
| 350447 | 18 HP | 272475 | Vanguard V-Twin |
| 294447 | 14 HP | 272475 | Large garden tractors |
| 356447 | 20 HP | 272475 | OHV Vanguard twin |
Industrial/Commercial Vanguard Engines
| Engine Model | HP Range | Gasket Part # | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 356777 | 23 HP | 796584 | Vanguard OHV V-Twin |
| 386447 | 23 HP | 796584 | Vertical shaft |
| 386777 | 24 HP | 796584 | Twin cylinder industrial engine |
| 356447 | 20 HP | 272475 | Vanguard twin |
| 380447 | 23 HP | 792368 | For heavy-duty applications |
| 386777 | 25 HP | 796584 | Full pressure lube |
| 386447 | 24 HP | 796584 | Commercial zero-turns |
Related Briggs and Stratton Belt Size Chart(For All Models)
How to Use the Briggs and Stratton Head Gasket Chart
Using the chart is simple:
- Locate your engine model number (usually found on the blower housing or near the spark plug).
- Match it to the corresponding part number.
- Use this part number to order a genuine or compatible head gasket.
Maintenance Tips for Extending Gasket Life
To avoid frequent replacements:
- Change your oil regularly
- Ensure cooling systems are functional
- Avoid engine overheating
- Don’t overtighten bolts during head installation
- Always torque bolts to manufacturer specifications
Related John Deere Spark Plug Gap Chart(For All Models)
Head Gasket Replacement Tips
- Preparation: Disconnect the spark plug and remove components like the air cleaner, fuel tank, and muffler to access the cylinder head.
- Remove the Old Gasket: Unscrew the valve cover and cylinder head bolts, then carefully remove the old gasket. Clean the surfaces with a razor blade to remove debris.
- Install the New Gasket: Align the new gasket precisely, ensuring it matches the bolt holes and cylinder. Use valve guide lubricant on the cylinder head bolts.
- Torque the Bolts: Tighten bolts in increments using a torque wrench, following the torque specifications in your engine’s manual (e.g., 220 lb-in for some Intek models). Check for flatness of the cylinder head, as aluminum heads can warp and cause leaks.
- Reassemble and Test: Reinstall components, check valve clearances (typically .002-.007 inches), and test the engine for proper operation.
Challenges with Head Gaskets
- Check Head Flatness: Use sandpaper or emery cloth on a flat surface to ensure the cylinder head is even, as aluminum heads can develop low spots.
- Use OEM Parts: Genuine Briggs & Stratton gaskets (e.g., 794114 for 20 HP Intek) are reported to fit perfectly and resolve issues like oil burning.
- Consider Permatex Copper Spray: Some users suggest using Permatex copper spray to enhance sealing, though this is not officially recommended by Briggs & Stratton.
