Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Oil Leak, dipstick tube, breather tube

Question
I have a Cub Cadet LT1018 18.5 hp ELS 500 B&S. I have noticed an oil leak but cannot determine where it originates. Where I see it is when it drips on the exaust in the front and smokes. I am no mechanic so is this a project I should undertake ? Any ideas ?

Answer
First be sure to keep an eye on your oil level so it does not get below the ad mark.  The first thing would be to pressure wash the entire tractor.  

Then check the oil seal on the bottom of the engine.  Check the point where the dipstick tube goes into the engine.  Check the engine breather to see if oil is coming out the breather tube. Be sure the dipstick is all the way in.

If you check all of these and it still leaks the crankcase halves gasket could be leaking.  That is where the engine has to be removed and the engine taken apart to fix it.  Hope this helps