Briggs & Stratton Engine Identification

How to Find the Model, Type, and Code on Your Briggs & Stratton Engine

Introduction

Identifying the model, type, and code on your Briggs & Stratton engine is essential when ordering spare parts, finding manuals, or troubleshooting repairs. Every Briggs & Stratton engine is stamped with a unique set of numbers that tell you exactly which parts fit your engine — and where to find technical information.

This guide will walk you through where to locate these numbers, what they mean, and why they’re important, helping you select the correct engine parts with confidence.

Scroll down for videos, showing the location of of these details on Small Engines, Utility Engines and Tractor Engines, or read on for why they are important and where to find them.

Why Your Briggs & Stratton Engine Numbers Matter

Briggs & Stratton engines are used in thousands of machines, including:

  • Lawnmowers
  • Ride‑on mowers
  • Tillers and cultivators
  • Pressure washers
  • Generators
  • Chippers and shredders

Because many engines look similar on the outside, the model, type, and code provide the exact specification needed to:

  • Order the correct replacement parts
  • Find accurate service kits
  • Access the correct maintenance diagrams
  • Match carburettors, air filters, spark plugs, and more
  • Identify the correct engine manual

Understanding Briggs & Stratton Engine Numbers

Briggs & Stratton engines typically use three key identifiers:

1. Model Number

This identifies the engine series and design, such as the displacement and basic construction.

2. Type Number

This gives detailed information about the configuration — including crankshaft type, governor system, and emissions compliance.

3. Code Number

This is the engine’s production date, helping identify revisions or updated parts.

Together, these three numbers give a complete profile of your engine.

Where to Find the Model, Type & Code on Your Briggs & Stratton Engine

The location of your numbers depends on the engine style. Briggs & Stratton places identification numbers directly stamped into the metal, typically on one of the following areas:

1. On the Blower Housing (Engine Cover)

One of the most common locations.
Look on:

  • The top of the engine
  • The side of the engine cover
  • Near the rewind starter (if fitted)

2. Above the Spark Plug

Some smaller engines have the numbers stamped directly above or beside the spark plug.

3. On the Valve Cover

Often used on OHV (overhead valve) engines.
You may find the numbers stamped into a metal valve cover or printed on a sticker on the valve cover.

4. On the Engine Block

For older engines, the numbers may be located:

  • Near the muffler
  • On the front of the engine block
  • Next to the carburettor mounting area

5. On a Sticker or Label

Newer models sometimes include a printed label that shows the three numbers clearly.

How the Numbers Are Displayed

The numbers will appear in one line or three separate sections, for example:

Model 12H802 – Type 0625 – Code 09071601

Or:

12H802-0625-09071601

Write them down exactly as displayed, including hyphens.

Tips for Reading Your Engine Numbers

  • Clean the area first — dirt and grass can hide the stamping.
  • Use a torch to see recessed numbers more clearly.
  • A pencil rubbing can help if the stamping is faint.
  • Check multiple sides of the engine if you cannot find it immediately.

What to Do Once You Have the Numbers

Once you’ve noted the model, type, and code, you can:

  • Search for genuine Briggs & Stratton parts
  • Identify the correct service kit
  • Access exploded diagrams for your exact engine
  • Order carburettors, gaskets, spark plugs, filters, and more
  • Confirm compatibility with your lawnmower or machine

These numbers ensure you always buy the correct parts first time.

Need Help Identifying Your Briggs & Stratton Engine?

If you’re still unsure where to find your engine's identification numbers, or you’d like help selecting the correct spare parts, our team is here to help.

Simply provide:

  • A photo of your engine
  • Any numbers you’ve found
  • The machine brand and model

We’ll match your engine to the correct parts quickly and accurately.

Parts for Briggs & Stratton engines can be found using the Briggs & Stratton look-up, but to use this, you will need the MODEL, TYPE and CODE, stamped into the engine.

Here are videos from Briggs & Stratton showing where you can find these on each type of engine.

How to find your Engine Model details

                            

Where to find your Utility Engine Model, Type and Code

                          

Where to find your Tractor Engine Model, Type and Code

                          

Click on this link to go to the Briggs & Stratton Parts Diagrams pages...

For further information you can click on this Link to our specialist sister site, Briggsbits...

FAQ: How to Find the Model, Type & Code on a Briggs & Stratton Engine

1. Where can I find the model number on my Briggs & Stratton engine?

The model number is usually stamped into the metal of the engine. Common locations include the blower housing (engine cover), above the spark plug, on the valve cover, or on the side of the engine block. Some newer engines may also have a printed label.

2. What do the model, type and code numbers mean?

  • Model – identifies the basic engine series and design
  • Type – defines configuration details such as crankshaft type and emissions setup
  • Code – shows the manufacture date of the engine

Together, these allow you to select the correct parts and manuals.

3. Why do I need the model, type and code to order parts?

Briggs & Stratton produce thousands of engine variations. Engines that appear identical can use different carburettors, filters, gaskets or ignition parts. These numbers ensure you receive exactly the right spare parts, service kit or technical information.

4. Are Briggs & Stratton numbers always stamped in the same place?

No. Locations vary by engine series, age and design. If you cannot see the numbers on the engine cover, check the valve cover, spark plug area, or engine block. On some models the numbers may be printed on a sticker or label.

5. How do I read a Briggs & Stratton code number?

The code number represents the production date.
Example: 09071601

  • 09 = Year (2009)
  • 07 = Month (July)
  • 16 = Day
    This helps identify part revisions.

6. What if my Briggs & Stratton numbers are hard to read?

Try cleaning the area with a cloth, using a torch, or gently rubbing a pencil across thin paper placed over the stamping. Dirt, oil and age can often obscure the numbers.

7. Can I identify my engine without the numbers?

In most cases, the numbers are required. However, our team can sometimes identify engines from clear photos, machine details and visible engine features. If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll help.

8. Do I need the machine model number as well as the engine number?

Sometimes, yes. The machine manufacturer (e.g., Mountfield, Stiga, ATCO, Hayter) may fit different engines on the same model of mower. Providing both numbers ensures complete accuracy.

9. What if the identification plate or sticker is missing?

If the label has worn off or been removed, the numbers are usually still stamped into the metal somewhere on the engine. Check all likely areas carefully. If you still can’t find them, send us photos and we’ll assist.

10. What can I order once I have the correct numbers?

You can then confidently identify and order:

  • Air filters
  • Oil filters
  • Carburettors
  • Spark plugs
  • Gaskets and seals
  • Recoil starters
  • Complete service kits
  • Engine manuals and diagrams

These numbers ensure every part is compatible with your exact Briggs & Stratton engine.