Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Oil Leakage on Craftsman Mower 917380310, crankshaft seal, center bolt

Question
Oil leaking from underneath by the cutting blade. Does this involve breaking down the engine or is it just a simple thing like replacing an oil seal that is easy to get at? Thanks.

Bob

Answer
Hello Bob:

From your Description it Sounds like the Lower Crankshaft Seal is Leaking. The Following is a Basic Instruction File I Made for Doing this Repair. Any Input is Appreciated. Remove the Spark Plug. If you Tilt the Mower/Engine, then Tilt it so the Plug Hole is Facing Up. Turn the Engine and Watch the Center Blade Bolt as the Engine is Turned. If the Bolt Turns True, then the Crankshaft is Not Bent. If the Center Bolt Wobbles, then the Crankshaft is Bent and this can be the Cause of the Lower Seal Leaking. To Replace the Lower Crankshaft Seal; **Remove the Blade and Blade Adapter. Sand the Crankshaft with Emory Cloth Sand Paper and Remove All the Rust and Burrs. The Using  a Small Flat Head Screwdriver, Pop Out the Old Seal. Sometimes, you have to Use a Small Cutting Chisel and Cut the Seal First. I Use Pipe of the Same Outside Diameter of the Seal(Close as Possible) and 3" Longer than the Crankshaft with an End Cap on it. Place the Seal Into the Engine Base and Get it Started. Place the Pipe Over the Crankshaft and Drive the Seal Into Place. Sometimes, if you have a Full Tool Set; you can Use a Deep Well Socket to Drive the Seal Into Place. Make Sure it is Deep Enough to Miss Hitting the End of the Crankshaft.** If you Hit a Snag 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. Ratings and Comments are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John