Briggs & Stratton, LLC

Robert L Blohm

Paul A Tharman

Geoffrey P Zabrowski

Jeffrey C Blonski

David G DeBaets

Steven G Hoch

A fluid condition indicating system and method using visual and audible devices. The system includes a circuit having visual and audible indicators, a power supply, and a plurality of switches or sensors. A start switch is coupled to the power supply, the visual indicator, and the audible indicator, and an enable switch is responsive to an ignition signal. During engine starting, the circuit enables the visual indicator in response to a condition of the start switch and a low fluid sensor, and disables the audible indicator. The audible indicator is enabled in response to the condition of the enable switch after engine starting, and may include a transistor or an output of a controller such as a microprocessor. The system may be integrated into a single wiring harness that can be easily replaced or retrofit onto existing outdoor power equipment.

System and method for indicating fluid condition

A starter motor construction including a drive shaft and a spline having an external helical thread is disposed concentrically of the shaft and rotates therewith. An internally threaded pinion is engaged with the spline and moves axially outward on rotation of the drive shaft against the force of a biasing spring to effect engagement of the pinion with a ring gear on the flywheel of the engine. A cushioning mechanism is incorporated between the drive shaft and the spline and includes a pair of metal plates, one of which is secured to the drive shaft and the other to the spline. A resilient disc composed of a rubber-like material is bonded to the opposed faces of the plates and is provided with a continuous peripheral groove. The cushioning mechanism acts to absorb radial torque and axial force as the pinion is moved into engagement with the ring gear.

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Hubertus, WI, United States of America

Robert L Blohm