Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsmen 24 / 900 Series Tiller Leaking Oil, craftsman model, crankcase oil

Question
Dear Eric,

I recently, as part of warming up the machine from winter idleness, operated the machine with its oil level about 1/2 a quart below full. Today I topped it off to full and started it. Oil started leaking near the air cleaner unit and it seemed to be coming out of the muffler, too.
I thought it was a normal burn-off of accumulated crud until I realized this wasn't a burn-off but oil somehow spitting out and hitting the hot engine, resulting in the accompanying cloud of smoke.

Anyway, what can I do about this? I'm waiting while it cools off, then I'll clean and assess. I plan to take the air cleaner off and see if there's an oil leak, but I'm wondering if, considering its recent history, it just needs a clean-up? Could topping off the oil result in some leakage that will eventually stop by itself after the lubrication system is fully lubricated?

Thanks for your ideas.


BTW, now  (tonight) there's no drip of oil at all coming from behind the air filter. Thanks again for your time.

Answer
Does the oil smell like gasoline and is it thin?  Can you send me the Craftsman model number located on the Craftsman sticker?  If you can't find the sticker the engine make, model, type and code number will work as well.

Some engine carbs are suspect to leak gas past the carb inlet needle.  The gas flows into the engine crankcase oil and causes it to come out the air filter and muffler.  If your oil smells like gas you need to clean the carb, replace the inlet needle and seat, and finally change the oil.

Let me know the engine info or Craftsman model number off the sticker.

Eric