You are correct, rusty.ute, the Briggs model number begins with the displacement in cubic inches. Next digit is the design generation, starting from zero, so that 92508 is a third generation design. After that comes a high-content number: it tells you several things. 0 through 4 is horizontal crankshaft, 5 through 9 is vertical. 1 and 5 are VacuJet carburetors, 2 and 9 are PulsaJet carburetors. 3, 4 and 7 are FloJet carburetors. The next digit tells you whether it has plain or ball main bearing, flange mounting, and generator or alternator. The last digit tells you what kind of starter it uses. The second block of numbers (the type) can be looked up to find out the details of the engine. The third block, or code, tell you when it was made, on which shift and in which plant.
Chris' engine was made on 5 August 1987.
By using the model and type you can (if you are lucky - the Briggs site seems rather flaky) look up the Operator's Manual and Illustrated Parts List. Here is the Operator's Manual for Chris' engine:
http://bsintek.basco.com/BriggsDocumentDisplay/msowGK-K_ny7tH217FzoPu.pdfHere is the Illustrated Parts List for it:
http://bsintek.basco.com/BriggsDocumentDisplay/Z6nmrBVJ1DajI.pdfThe 92508 was my second-favourite small Briggs, after the 92908 (I like the PulsaJet carburetor better than the VacuJet). It has an automatic choke that works very well if it hasn't received the attentions of a prior tenant.
Being post-1981, Chris' engine has Magnatron electronic ignition. This is a good thing, especially with an elderly engine: the Magnatron is very reliable, you don't have to pull the flywheel off to do routine maintenance, and it doesn't leak crankcase oil into the breaker points compartment with unfortunate results.
