Hi, I have a briggs 407677-0229-E1 (craftsman ride mower)
It has had a valve bearing slip (over heating, mouse nest etc.) It bent two push rods. The real problem is that there seems to be a small crack in one of the valve guides. I can't seem to find the guides for sale; I know that they are not really meant to be serviced/replace. My question is can I buy a guide? Can I have a guide made? Should I just buy a used head?
 
thanks in advance.
AB

Did the exhaust seat stay seated?  That's what usually comes out when over heated.
 
Briggs doesn't sell guides..
 
More importantly, ***for the push rods to bend, the valves KISSED the piston**
and are very likely junk. Flipping the head over and filling the combustion chamber
with fluid will tell.  If leaking, the fluid will come out either / both the intake runner or exhaust.
 
 
I bought a used head from E Bay and it was EXTEMLY WARPED.
I ended up buying brand new, with gaskets from Amazon for around $150.00
 
A machine shop may be able to make you one, and install but may be expensive.
A valve job would definitly be needed as well.
So, ^^  may or may not be an option..
 
I'd personally opt for a new head, you know everythings good and won't be doing
it again. 
 
.
 
 

Thanks for the reply. I do see a few ebay listings but I bet they don't know if the valve bushing has moved. Every spring wield new patches on the mower deck...it might be time to go for a new mower...and now to find one that isn't tin can crap?!
 
ab