Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Oil coming out of breather into carb, briggs stratton, hp model

Question
Hi
I have a Briggs & Stratton 17.hp Model 311707.  Smoking bad - tracked the problem to oil spurting out of breather into carb. No gas in oil, proper oil level (not overfilled). I removed breather and did not see any PCV that I thought might be plugged.  Can't see any leaks from around or near head - do you think its a blown gasket or is there a PCV that I didnt see.
Thanks
Dave

Answer
Dave
It may be a blown gasket have you down a leak down test to see if the compression goes down?There also may be a leak around the breather bad gasket,bad seal,clogged up tool.Check the breather tube it may be inserted to far into the breather.Try replacing the breather assy (not to be confused with the air cleaner)before sinking money into rebuilding.Second double check the oil level. It should be at the correct mark while on a level surface. Hope this helps.