Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): gasoline in oil

Question
Hello we have a briggs n stratten 17.5 hp riding mower..recently we started the mower and blue smoke came billowing out of the from part of the mower where the exaust is..i called the manufacturer and he told me to rebuild the carb and so I did..there is still smoke and oily gasoline coming out from the exaust area..can you tell me what to do next??

Answer

This a very common problem...a leaky carburetor inlet needle.  This can be caused by a number of things.

Did you replace the inlet needle and seat if the seat was replaceable?

If so, the simplest solution to solve your issue it to install an inline shut-off valve; less than $10.00 and should be readily available from any mower shop.

What is the engine model, type and code number?

Make sure you DRAIN and REFILL the oil.

The shut-off valve will solve your problem...YOU just have to REMEMBER to shut it OFF when you are done mowing.

FYI, I install inline shut-off valves on my own personal mowers...yes, mowers...mower than I need but they all have shut-off valves so I don't have to worry about gas leaking past the carb inlet needle seat and entering the engine oil.

Eric