blowing headgaskets

[panteramatt]

I have a briggs vanguard 15hp ohv 28q777. I replaced the headgasket after it was smoking and its still doing it. It mowed fine for 5 minutes then just started pouring white smoke. It calls for 220" lbs of torque so I torqued it at 20' lbs and tightened the top middle, lower middle, then the middle sides then the rest. Did I do it right? My airfilter is soaked in oil too.

[davidl79]

Have you checked for a crack in the Jugg?

[panteramatt]

Havent noticed a crack but havent really checked either. I put another headgasket on and it did the same thing. So I unplugged the crankcase breather tube and it ran much better. It still puffs smoke when under a load though.Any thoughts?

[davidl79]

I'm not sure but it sounds like it could be a bad ring. I would check compression and see how it holds. It might just be leaking oil by. It could also be something with the valves like on isn't closing all the way and oil is leaking by. Also if you take the head off again check to see if it is warped. I hope this helps.

[panteramatt]

I checked the head and while it wasnt perfect, it looked fine. I did a leakdown test and only noticed a little air coming from the exhaust valve.

[mowerknower]

You need a new breather, On those briggs engines I always do a breather if that head gasket blows. Trust me, it will take care of the problem.