Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Honda mower blown engine?, honda mower, honda lawn

Question
I think I've blown up my Honda lawn mower engine. This afternoon I took it out and began mowing. After about five to ten minutes of mowing, I thought I hit something - I heard a sharp sounds, and the engine faltered and stopped. I looked to see if there was a stick or stone in the grass but found nothing. I restarted the engine, and it started, but the blade would not turn, and the engine was laboring. I shut it off right away, thinking it was a problem with the blade or blade clutch ( just guessing). I looked under the mower. I could turn the blade manually. The linkages to the clutch behind the blade were intact.

I restarted again, and this time the engine ran very rough, with lots of oil smoke from the exhaust. Shut it off again, and noticed oil leaking out of the air filter housing.

The mower is toasted, I'm sure, but I wish I knew why. It was less than two years old. I'm pretty good about checking the oil, although I didn't check the oil before using it today.

I paid lots of $$$ for this mower, too. Thought it was a good model, but now I'm not so sure.

Should I have the engine replaced, or buy a Lawn Boy?

Thanks

Phil in Minnesota  

Answer
Sorry about the time to get back to you but I had PC problems.  The smoke came from tipping the mower over.  It will clear up just run it for a while.  The issue sounds like the BBC.  I am not familiar with Honda's BBC.  I suggest talking to a Honda dealer.