Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): honda engine exhausting oil, air filter assembly, oil leaks

Question
fred,
i recently tried to start my 8 in. chipper with a honda motor. it had sat with stabilized gas and full oil for almost a year without a start. after much tugging and many pulls the engine did finally turn over, however after idling for about 25-30 seconds, the muffler began to not only exhaust heavy white smoke but also actually began spitting black oil. after shutting the engine off and restarting, interestingly enough the engine runs without much smoke or spitting for again about 20 sec. until the process begins again. this happened regardless of the choke positioning. what's happening and is it over for my engine? it really hasn't seen much use.
thanks much,
jim r

Answer
It sounds like your carb overflowed.  The fuel went into the crankcase and when the engine was turned over it went into the combustion chamber and out the muffler.  First change the oil.  Then  start and  run for about 30 to 45 min and then change the spark plug if fowled.  If it happens again rebuild the carburetor.  Also check the engine breather.  It runs from the air filter assembly to the breather.  If full of oil empty clean and reinstall.  Then check for leaks at the oil fill tube or dipstick.  check engine for any other oil leaks and if none should be fine.