Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh crankcase breather, crankcase breather, breather tube

Question
I recently became aware of needing to maintain the crankcase breather on small engines and am attempting to do so.  It is on a Sears mower 6.75hp engine.  The engine model number is 143.016708 or I think Tecumseh's model number LEV120-361521A.  After removing the recoil mechanism and engine shroud, I can see a hose extending from the top of the carb up to a round flat rubber(?) piece about 1&1/2 inches in diameter that seems to be pressed quite tightly into the top of the engine near where the gas tank is mounted.  Is this the crankcase breather?  I was afraid to remove it because it seemed rather difficult.  If this is the breather, how do I remove it without damaging it? I wasn't sure if it can be removed without removing the flywheel. What should I do once it is removed?  Can it be cleaned and replaced or must I purchase a new unit or is there an element to be cleaned or replaced?  Do I necessarily even need to be pursuing this?

Hopefully my explanation is understandable.  Thankyou for your response.

Answer

breather

breather Duane
That is the breather tube, I have enclosed a parts list for you to see how it comes apart. Yes the breather need serviced once in a while it will help the engine run better. Sometimes cleaning the grease off the engine will help it run cooler also.