Frequently Asked Questions

What oil should I be using? We strongly recommend using Lawson Speed Shop Oil. 

How should I ship my engine to you for a rebuild? UPS is our preferred shipping provider. Insure for replacement value. Drain engine oil.  REMOVE AND KEEP the exhaust pipe, air filter, chain guard, and engine mount. INCLUDE the slide, spring, carb top and rubber with the carburetor. Use the original Briggs box the engine came in with the inserts. Add extra paper in front, behind and on top of the engine to tightly hold it in place. You may remove the carburetor and place it below the valve cover to avoid damage. If you do not have an original box you can use an 18x18x12 or similar heavy duty box. Use paper and cardboard to tightly pack the engine so it cannot move. It needs to be able to withstand falling to the pavement from approximately waist high. You can also cut a piece of plywood to fit the bottom of the box and bolt down the engine to keep it centered. Please print, complete and send in the Engine Rebuild Sheet from our website.

Do I have to break the engine in? Every engine from our shop undergoes a thorough break in procedure on the dyno and is ready to race upon receiving it. Oil change intervals need to be more frequent for the first 2 hours on new engines only.  Always drain oil out hot while debris is suspended in the oil. 

How often do I need to change the oil? We recommend changing your oil every 60-90 minutes of run time. Oil change intervals need to be more frequent for the first 2 hours on new engines only. Always drain oil out hot. 

How do I start my engine? Blow in the tank vent until fuel flows through the pump and into the carb. With the air filter removed, cover the carb with your hand and pull the starter rope with the opposite hand. Your hand should get wet with fuel. Lastly, hold throttle down approximately halfway and pull rope. Engine should fire. 

How do I vent my catch can? Ensure carb and valve cover vent lines are either in separate containers or have multiple holes for ventilation if in the same container. 

How often should my engine be rebuilt? Engine service times vary and are based on many factors. Red/green slide engines can typically go 15-20 hours between service. Yellow/black slides should be serviced every 8-10 hours to maintain peak performance. Lapping valves between service is highly discouraged. 

Should my clutch float on the crankshaft? Clutches need to be locked onto the crankshaft to avoid damaging the crankshaft keyway. The clutch hub should hang slightly off the end of the crankshaft before installing clutch bolt to achieve this. The drum spins freely.

How often should I lube my chain? Use minimal chain lube. Nextzett Ultra Gel chain lube is recommended. Once or twice per day is typically sufficient. After applying, wipe excess with a rag to avoid lube getting into the clutch and inducing heat/slipping.