Grumpy, the explanation on the adjustment of valve clearances is exactly what I was after so thanks for taking the time to explain it in detail.

I always replace the gaskets if they are damaged however for some reason this engine just appeared to have a much smoother low idle compared to other clone engines. It may be something to do with the carby being a Huayi and not the usual Ruixing but I can�t be sure. The configuration of both carbys appear to be a close copy of the Klein Honda uses. The only bad point of these copy carbies I can find it getting the emulsifier out. I usually soak it for a while as they are really easy to damage if you try and force it out. I have wrecked one and learnt my lesson before so hopefully it won�t happen again.

The insulator gasket was definitely a � D Shape� internally so I am assuming this will be the clone of the GXV 140 rather than the 160 which follows on similar to the Sanli�s, Gardeners Choice, Victa V40�s etc model range.

I have oiled the pre filter only as you instructed. The original filter I have left in place as per Bigted�s recommendation. I did however give it a thorough clean.

Lastly as with all mowers I haven�t work on before I like to take them for a run in the long grass to see how they perform. For some reason I had higher expectations of this mower compared to the Sanli and Gardeners Choice but it was no better. The engine really struggled under moderate (knee high grass) load however it did get the job done. The fact the grass was a little wet didn�t help. The mower starts on first pull both hot and cold has no smoke whatsoever now so that�s a plus. It did take a little while for the excess oil to burn out of the exhaust chamber buts its right now. Performance wise it will suit your average household well but it is definitely no workhorse.