cheers thanks for the tips, i have a press so no worries there. I'll have another look at the crank - there is a shiny spot where the seal runs but don't think its grooved out. - if so i'll do your trick of putting it in slightly less.
The bottom main bearing is tight no detectable movement. come to think of it i don't think mine is a brass bush looks more like white metal? Or maybe just white metal lined brass bush?
I think the old briggs engines are bullet proof, this thing has done a lot of work (been in the family since new in 81). All its had is a few sets of rings and regular oil change. The bore is perfect. bigend is tight etc. I think the automotive type filter element helped it a lot.
cheers
matt
