Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro 22 Recycler mower oil leak, dowel pins, crankshaft seal

Question
Hi John, I have a 4 yr old Toro 22" Recycler mower with an oil leak. It runs but I need to add oil each time I use it. I believe it started after I washed the deck when the motor was hot. The guy at the local shop says it is a bottom gasket and will cost 275.00 to repair. I can get a new mower for same price. Should I (1)attempt a homeowner repair and possibly get in over my head or (2)buy a new mower. The part costs $18.00 at this shop. (3) I can look around for a shop that can fix it at lower cost.

Answer
Hello John:

This is a Simple Process. Drain the Oil and Remove the Engine to the Work Bench with the Oil Pan Facing Up. I have a Wooden Rest that was Especially Made to Hold the Engine when in this Position. Using Fine Sand Paper, Remove ALL the Rust and Debris from the Crankshaft. Remove the Oil Pan Bolts. After All the Oil Pan Bolts are Removed; Tap Lightly on the Sides of the Oil Pan to Loosen it from the Dowel Pins. When the Oil Pan is Removed, you can See the Governor Resting on Top of the Cam Gear. Lift Off the Governor. Check the Engine Block for Debris and Wipe the Inside of the Block With a Rag, Until Clean. Set the Governor So it is Resting on the Governor Shaft and Carefully Replace the Oil Pan. Remember to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket. If the Crankshaft Seal Was Not Leaking, then Leave it Alone. It Should be OK. You can Easily Replace it While Mounted on the Machine if Required Later. Make Sure the Governor Stays in Contact with the Governor Shaft while Replacing the Oil Pan. Re - Mount the Engine to the Machine. Refill With Oil. These Instructions are Basic. Your Internal Governor May Differ. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John