Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman Lt1000, crankcase oil, question pool

Question
Hey Robert,

I have had a bit of a problem with my Craftsman LT1000 with an Intec 18ohv B&S.  My wife mowed the back yard yesterday, so today I was going to mow the front... I started the mower pulled half way around the back and was stopped, waiting for the gate, when "Clack" my mower stopped cold.  History: my mower is about 6 years old, hydrostatic trans, it has smoked a little at start-up for a couple years, and yes the oil was pretty darn low when I got off and checked it.  First thing I thought was "oh great, I just seized the motor", but It had been running for no more that 45 seconds, and was at idle when it suddenly stopped with a fairly loud "clack".  When I try to turn it over the top turns about an inch and stops.  I talked to my neighbor and his mower (John Deere) has an oil low safety switch, do the craftsman have those?  It seems like a mechanical stop is keeping my motor from turning over, but I don't know if that is possible. Any suggestions would be great!

Answer
Hello Dan:

>>Sorry for the Delay. This Question was Located in the Question Pool and I can Only Answer Questions from the Question Pool when I am Not Answering Questions here or at the Other Site I Answer Questions at. Also, I Just Returned from Vacation.
>>If the Engine is a Tecumseh, then
>>You may have to Look into Replacing the Connecting Rod (if that is all the Damage done Internally).
>>Tecumseh Engines are NOT Tolerant to LOW Crankcase Oil and will Usually Snap the Connecting Rod.
>>Can you Turn the Engine Reverse Rotation?
>>How Far does it Turn before it Stops Turning going this Direction?
>>Depending on the Engine OEM, the Engine May or May Not have the Low Oil Sensor/Shut Off.
>>Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine and the Unit/Mower Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. The Unit/Mower Model Numbers are Usually Located Under the Seat on a Sticker on the Body of the Mower.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John