Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Riding Mower - Trouble with gas getting in oil, crankcase breather, piston ring

Question
5/27/2008
Model # 917273640 - 18.5 hp - Serial # 022704b007135 Not sure what the spec code is
I am having problems with the gas getting in the oil in my craftsman riding mower - I was told it was the carburetor, so I purchased and replaced the carburetor, but am still having the same problem - If I change the oil, the mower will run about 10 minutes then when the gas mixes with the oil again, the mower stops and will not restart - any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
B Dorsey


Answer
Barry
Ok what you will have to do is make sure the oil is not too full.Now take the breather tube out and make sure that all of the breather's are clean.Here are some tips that may help you out.

Problem: Crankcase breather passing oil.
Possible causes:

  1. Too much oil in crankcase.
  2. Engine speed is excessive.
  3. Oil fill cap or gasket is damaged or missing.
  4. Breather mechanism is dirty or defective.
  5. Piston ring gaps are aligned.
  6. Piston rings are worn.