Correctly identifying a Briggs & Stratton engine is essential when ordering replacement parts, performing maintenance, or determining engine specifications.
This guide explains how to read Briggs & Stratton engine numbers and provides a comprehensive identification chart in table format covering all major engine families and configurations.
Briggs and Stratton Engine Identification Chart
Briggs & Stratton Model, Type & Code Explained
| Identifier | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Engine size and basic design | Determines displacement and family |
| Type | Exact engine configuration | Identifies carburetor, crankshaft, governor |
| Code | Date of manufacture | Identifies carburetor, crankshaft, and governor |
Briggs & Stratton Engine Code Date Chart
The engine code represents the manufacturing date using the format YYMMDDXX.
| Code Digits | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 | Year | 21 = 2021 |
| Next 2 | Month | 06 = June |
| Next 2 | Day | 15 = 15th |
| Last 2 | Plant/assembly | Factory code |
Example:
Code 21061515 = June 15, 2021
Related Briggs and Stratton Engine Compression Chart(For All Engines)
Briggs & Stratton Engine Series Identification Chart
| Engine Series | Displacement (cc) | HP Range | Valve Type | Starter Type | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 450 Series | 125 cc | 3.5–4.0 HP | OHV | Recoil | Push mowers |
| 500 Series | 140 cc | 4.0–4.5 HP | OHV | Recoil | Lawn mowers |
| 550 Series | 140–150 cc | 4.5–5.0 HP | OHV | Recoil | Self-propelled mowers |
| 625 Series | 150 cc | 5.0–5.5 HP | OHV | Recoil | Lawn mowers |
| 675 Series | 163 cc | 6.0 HP | OHV | Recoil | Mowers, tillers |
| 725 Series | 163–175 cc | 6.25 HP | OHV | Recoil/Electric | Lawn mowers |
| 750 Series | 161 cc | 6.75 HP | OHV | Recoil/Electric | Premium mowers |
| 775 Series | 175 cc | 7.0 HP | OHV | Recoil/Electric | Heavy-duty mowers |
| 875 Series | 190 cc | 7.75 HP | OHV | Electric | Professional mowers |
| 950 Series | 208 cc | 9.5 HP | OHV | Electric | Pressure washers |
| 1000 Series | 223 cc | 10.0 HP | OHV | Electric | Snow blowers |
| 1150 Series | 250 cc | 11.5 HP | OHV | Electric | Snow engines |
| 1450 Series | 306 cc | 14.5 HP | OHV | Electric | Riding mowers |
| 1750 Series | 344 cc | 17.5 HP | OHV | Electric | Lawn tractors |
Related Briggs and Stratton Engine Oil Capacity Chart(For All Models)
Briggs & Stratton Model Number Breakdown Chart
The model number provides key technical details such as engine displacement, cylinder orientation, and crankshaft position.
| Model Prefix | Cylinders | Shaft Orientation | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09, 10 | Single | Vertical | Push mowers |
| 12, 14 | Single | Vertical | Lawn mowers |
| 15, 17 | Single | Vertical | Self-propelled mowers |
| 19, 20 | Single | Vertical | Commercial mowers |
| 21 | Single | Horizontal | Pressure washers |
| 25 | Single | Horizontal | Tillers, pumps |
| 28 | Single | Horizontal | Generators |
| 31 | Single | Horizontal | Utility engines |
| 33 | Single | Horizontal | Snow blowers |
| 40 | V-Twin | Vertical | Riding mowers |
| 44 | V-Twin | Vertical | Lawn tractors |
| 49 | V-Twin | Vertical | Zero-turn mowers |
Briggs & Stratton V-Twin Engine Identification Chart
| Engine Family | Displacement | HP Range | Fuel Type | Equipment Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intek V-Twin | 656–724 cc | 18–24 HP | Gasoline | Lawn tractors |
| Vanguard V-Twin | 627–993 cc | 20–36 HP | Gasoline | Commercial equipment |
| Professional Series V-Twin | 724 cc | 22–25 HP | Gasoline | Heavy-duty mowers |
Related Briggs and Stratton Oil Filter Cross Reference Chart(For All Brands)
Briggs & Stratton Horizontal Shaft Engine Chart
| Model Range | Displacement | Shaft Size | Starter | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 950–1000 | 208–223 cc | ¾ inch | Recoil/Electric | Pressure washers |
| 1150–1450 | 250–306 cc | 1 inch | Electric | Snow blowers |
| Vanguard Single | 305–408 cc | 1–1⅛ inch | Electric | Generators |
| Vanguard V-Twin | 627+ cc | 1–1¼ inch | Electric | Commercial equipment |
Briggs & Stratton Engine Type Number Chart
| Feature | Identified By Type Number |
|---|---|
| Carburetor style | Yes |
| Crankshaft length | Yes |
| Governor system | Yes |
| Fuel tank design | Yes |
| Muffler configuration | Yes |
Important: Two engines can share the same model number but require different parts due to type number differences.Related Briggs & Stratton 492932 Oil Filter Cross Reference Chart
Where to Find Briggs & Stratton Engine Numbers
Every Briggs & Stratton engine is identified using three key numbers:
- Model Number
- Type Number
- Code Number
These numbers are typically stamped, engraved, or printed on the engine in one of the following locations:
- Valve cover
- Blower housing
- Muffler heat shield
- Engine block (near spark plug or oil fill)
Why Correct Engine Identification Matters
Accurately identifying your Briggs & Stratton engine ensures:
- Correct replacement parts
- Proper oil capacity and specifications
- Accurate tune-up components
- Correct service manuals
- Avoidance of costly ordering mistakes
Using only the engine series or horsepower is not enough. Always rely on the Model, Type, and Code numbers together.
Related Briggs Stratton Engine Oil Recommendations(By Manufacturer)
FAQs
How do I identify my Briggs and Stratton engine?
You identify a Briggs & Stratton engine by locating the Model, Type, and Code numbers stamped or printed on the engine. These numbers are usually found on the valve cover, blower housing, muffler heat shield, or engine block. The model number identifies the engine family and size, the type number specifies the exact configuration, and the code number shows the manufacturing date.
How to tell what HP a Briggs and Stratton engine is?
Horsepower is determined from the engine model number and series, not just a label. Once you have the model number, you can reference a Briggs & Stratton engine chart to match it with its displacement (cc) and rated horsepower range. Many newer engines no longer display HP on decals, so the model number is the most accurate method.
What are the different B&S engine types?
Briggs & Stratton engines are commonly categorized into vertical shaft and horizontal shaft engines, as well as single-cylinder and V-twin designs. Major types include Classic, Quantum, Professional Series, Intek, Vanguard, Snow Series, and Commercial V-Twin engines. Each type is designed for specific applications such as lawn mowers, pressure washers, generators, or snow blowers.
How do you identify the engine model?
The engine model is identified by the first set of numbers in the engine identification sequence. This model number indicates the engine’s displacement, cylinder layout, shaft orientation, and basic design. It is always listed before the type and code numbers and is essential when ordering parts or service manuals.
How do I find the specs on my Briggs & Stratton engine?
To find engine specifications, use the Model and Type numbers to reference official Briggs & Stratton specification charts or service manuals. These specs include oil capacity, spark plug type, valve clearance, torque values, displacement, horsepower range, and maintenance intervals. Using only the engine series or appearance may lead to incorrect specifications.
Final Thoughts
A Briggs & Stratton engine identification chart is the fastest and most reliable way to determine engine specifications, production date, and compatibility with parts and accessories. Whether you’re servicing a push mower, repairing a pressure washer, or maintaining a lawn tractor, these tables provide a complete reference for all major Briggs & Stratton engines.
