Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Gravely 5260 oil leak, crankcase oil, engine crankcase

Question
I have a gravely 5260, Kohler 8 hp engine.  When I run this mower oil from the tranmission seem to seep into the engine.  I'll check the levels before I use it, making sure both are correct.  After use the engine has too much oil and the transmission has lost some.  The amount of oil appears to be a little less than a quart, so the engine is quite a bit overfilled.  Any suggestions what would casue this problem?

Thanks

Answer
Hello Bryan:

>>You can View a Breakdown of this Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.gravely.com/ and Select Parts Radar at the Bottom Left of the Page Under the "Gravely Tools" Section. Now Select the OEM (Gravely). Now Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. Now Double Click on your Model in the Results Area. No Select Sectional View. Now Select the Section of the Unit you wish to View. **You May have to Enlarge the Breakdown Several Times to Really See the Components.**
>>This is a First for me, but After Viewing the Breakdown of the Transmission and Engine Assembly; it Appears that the Crankshaft Seal is Bad or the Crankcase Vent for the Engine is Restricted and the Engine is Pulling the Transmission Oil into the Crankcase by the Seal.
>>I Suggest you Check the Crankcase Engine Vent and make Sure it is Operating Correctly. If it is, then Replace the Engine Crankshaft  Seal.
>>You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.kohlerplus.com/login.asp and Select Enter as Guest. Now Select the Thumbnail of the Engine Catalog you Wish to View.
>>Two Quick Questions; Are you Sure the Transmission is Not Leaking the Oil and Gas is Filling the Engine Crankcase Oil?
>>Does the Crankcase Oil Smell like Gas?
>>Please, Do Not Hesitate, If you Hit a Snag, if I Missed Something or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

>>PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 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