Where to Find the Model and Serial Number on Your Small Engine

When you need parts, service help, warranty information, or a replacement engine, one of the first things we will ask for is the model and serial number from the engine.

That sounds simple enough, until you are standing over the machine with a flashlight wondering which sticker is actually the right one. The mower has a model number. The engine has a model number. Sometimes there is also a serial number, spec number, type number, or code number.

Here is a quick guide to help you find the right information before you call, email, or order parts from Arlington Power Equipment.

Start With the Engine, Not the Equipment

Your mower, generator, pressure washer, snow blower, or other machine usually has its own model and serial number. That number identifies the equipment.

The engine has its own separate identification numbers. For engine parts, tune up kits, filters, carburetors, starters, coils, mufflers, and replacement engine questions, the engine numbers are usually what we need.

Before looking, make sure the engine is off and cooled down. A flashlight helps, and a clean rag can make a big difference if the label or stamped number is covered in dust, oil, or grass.

Kawasaki Engines

On Kawasaki engines, the model and serial number are usually found on a tag or label attached to the engine housing.

Common places to check:

• Engine shroud
• Fan housing
• Side of the engine
• Area near the barcode label

The model number may look like FR730V, FS600V, FX691V, FX801V, or FX850V.

When you send us the information, include the full model number and the full serial number. If there are letters after the model, include those too. Those little letters can change which parts fit.

Rehlko and Kohler Engines

Kohler Engines is now Rehlko, so you may see either name depending on the age of the engine, label, or manual.

For Kohler and Rehlko engines, look for an identification label or plate on the engine.

Common places to check:

• Blower housing
• Engine shroud
• Side cover
• Top side of the engine
• Area around the cylinder block on some models

For Kohler and Rehlko engines, the spec number is very important. Two engines can share the same basic model but use different parts depending on the spec.

When contacting us, try to send:

• Model number
• Spec number
• Serial number

If you are ordering Kohler or Rehlko parts, send all three numbers if they are available.

Honda Engines

Honda engine information is usually stamped into the side of the engine. The serial number commonly has a four or five letter prefix followed by seven numbers.

You may also see a Honda model number such as GX160, GX390, GCV160, GXV160, or GX690.

Common places to check:

• Side of the engine block
• Crankcase area
• Model number sticker on the engine
• Stamped area near the engine type code

For Honda engines, try to send:

• Engine model
• Engine type code, if visible
• Serial number

A clear photo of the stamped area is even better.

Briggs & Stratton Engines

Briggs & Stratton engines use model, type, and code numbers. These are often stamped directly into metal, so they may not look like a normal sticker.

Common places to check:

• Blower housing
• Muffler heat shield
• A few inches above the spark plug
• Fuel tank area
• Valve cover
• Base of the engine block

On some engines, a plastic cover or shroud may hide the numbers. If you cannot see them right away, check around the spark plug and valve cover area first.

When contacting us, send the full:

• Model
• Type
• Code

All three help us look up the correct parts.

Vanguard Engines

Vanguard is part of the Briggs & Stratton family, so the identification setup is similar. Most Vanguard engines also use model, type, and code numbers.

Common places to check:

• Blower housing
• Valve cover
• Muffler heat shield
• Area near the spark plug
• Under or behind the engine shroud

If the engine has a cover, the numbers may be tucked underneath or partially hidden.

When contacting us, send the full model, type, and code if possible.

What Should You Send Us?

The best thing you can send is a clear picture of the engine label, plate, or stamped number. If you are typing the numbers, please include every letter and number exactly as shown.

Helpful information to include:

• Equipment brand
• Equipment model number
• Engine brand
• Engine model number
• Engine serial number
• Spec, type, or code number, if listed
• Clear photo of the engine ID label or stamped numbers
• Photo of the part you need, if possible
• A few wide photos of the engine from different angles

More information up front usually means faster answers and fewer wrong parts. Nobody wants to play parts roulette.

Quick Tip

If your engine label is still readable, take a picture of it now and save it. Heat, oil, dirt, weather, and pressure washing can make those numbers harder to read over time.

Need Help?

If you cannot find the model or serial number, Arlington Power Equipment can help. Send us a few photos of the engine, especially the blower housing, valve cover, side of the block, and any stickers or stamped numbers you can find.

The more we can see, the faster we can help you find the right parts, service items, or replacement engine.