Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): bottom crankshaft seal leaking, jonn deere, crankshaft seal

Question
i have a 2007 G jonn deere with a 15hp command pro engine with about 150hrs.parked it in barn on concrete floor about 4weeks ago and went to move it yesterday and noticed large puddle of oil on clutch on bottom of mower-tore mower down with motor off and pulleys removed and added 1 qt. of oil ,3hrs later no leaks at bottom of engine.the temperature outside was about 10 degrees.is it possible the crank seal contracted.i did notice oil dripping from bottom when i moved mower and clutxch was wet with oil.i have a new crank seal i will install the next day.this is making any sense for i have some mechanical backgrong.any opinions would be a big help,thanx.jeff..i have not hit anthing with mower and the crank on bottom looks to be running true.

Answer
hi jeff

from your info supplied  

you are on the right track  by replacing the seal  and noting that the pto is straight with no sign of been struck by anything  it is possible that a tempreture related problem exsists

what oil did you use in this engine  ? it should be 10w/30 kohler oil
was anything found behind the seal when pulled out ? ie  string, flax  these can burn the hell out of a seal  before fitting seal  note if a  groove is evident on journal where seal sitts
and note how far the seal is driven into the housing

but is more like the seal just needs replacing  , but check type and qty of oil as well

cheers paul