Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

As is well document in the John Deere 1130 SE thread, there are a number of us that have questions on how to resolve the inconsistant drive issues on Briggs and Stratton built machines.  The ones that I know of are Simplicity, John Deere, Briggs and Stratton name plate machines, maybe Snapper is even a B&S built machine, (someone can please correct me if I am wrong). 

To recap from the other thread, I have seen it suggested that snow or moisture is getting between the belt cover and the engine and that is causing the issue. The well respect snowmann came up with that if I recall correctly.  Others have suggested inferior rubber used in the friction disk, yet others spoke a new cover that B&S has that is suppose to relieve the problem, but even after a new cover was installed the problem persisted. 

At this point I would like to encourage anyone with a B&S built machine to call B&S at 888/228-3068 and log a complaint and ask for a resolution to the problem.  If you already returned your machine because you found this issue unacceptable please call too and tell them.  That will make them stand up and take notice.  If they hear that these problems exist over a wide range of products from people all over the country they are more likely to fix it. 

Thanks in advance for considering this option.  We can all help each other out in getting good sound answers to our concerns.  If anyone finds a good resolution to the problem many of us would like to know so please share your experience when you do call in.

Rick

Nibbler I agree with you.   As a company B&S does not provide the warranty coverage for Simplicity or Snapper snowblowers...just the engines.   You can't register a simpliciyt or snapper snowblower on B&S website, just their engines, generators, and power washers.  B&S's website says that for info on snowblowers go to simplicity.com or snapper.com.   Simplicity and Snapper may be owned by B&S but they are stand alone business units.

Which makes me feel that the onus falls on Simplicity and Snapper not B&S for the machines ability to keep its drive . 

I've been running a B&S Snow Intek for 3 years and the only oil consumption that I've seen was when the little yellow plug on the right side fell out. I wondered why the snow to the right was starting to turn yellow, had an "Oh fudge" moment then dove for the "Off" switch. Found the plug and refilled the oil. I now check the little yellow plugs.

My new Simplicity drive failed in short order. the plate fell right off the shaft.
Only problem is, it is a safety issue. Because as the plate works itself off, it walks towards the friction disc, and leaves the blower engaged, or partially engaged.
Fixed now. Jury is still out. I am going to use it like a rented mule though, if it fails again like that, I'll have the warranty fix it and sell it.