---

James A. Wier is Appointed President and COO of Simplicity Manufacturing

6 January 1999

James A. Wier is Appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of Simplicity Manufacturing Corporation

    MILWAUKEE, Jan. 5 -- Briggs & Stratton Corporation
announced today that James A. Wier is leaving the Corporation and
has been appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of Simplicity
Manufacturing Corporation effective February 1, 1999.  Simplicity
Manufacturing Corporation is a customer of Briggs & Stratton Corporation.  Mr.
Wier has been employed by Briggs & Stratton since July 1, 1975 and has served
most recently as its Executive Vice President - Operations.

                                     James E. Brenn, Senior Vice President and
                                     Chief Financial Officer