Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): blue smoke and oil in air cleaner assembly, head valve engine, briggs stratton

Question
hi  i got a briggs & stratton 18 hp vangaurd v twin over head valve engine.the engine is blowing blue smoke and has quite a bit of oil in the air cleaner housing. it also runs like it has the choke on.I just had the hydrostatic pump and the 3 wheel motors rebuilt. changed oil plus filter and put machine back in service they ran it for 1 day and these symtoms came about.  could you give me any in sight as what to look for or causes for these conditions.   thank you craig

Answer
Craig:

Are you using SAE 30 oil in the engine?

Is the engine overfilled with oil?

How many hours are on the engine? Sounds like you could be in need of valve service, especially the valve guide seals.

Also check that all your orings are in good condition around the dipstick and dipstick tube.

Happy tinkering...

Dave