Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Riding Mower Leaks oil., engine crankshaft, belt pulley

Question
I have a Cadet 1600 series 1000.  After I start it up, it leaks oil around the front belt pulley that comes out of the bottom of the engine.  This oil gets knocked onto the exhaust and causes the oil to burn.  It also makes a vibrating sound whenever you press the accelerator to make it move.  I think that the problem may be caused by some type of bearing between the motor's block and its shaft.  Is this what you believe to be the problem is?  Can you direct me to some step by step process and/or diagrams that could help me fix this problem?

Answer
Hello Robert:

This is Usually Caused by a Bent Crankshaft. The Bearing you are Asking About is Not a Bearing in this Case. The Sump/Oil Pan is Machined to a Specificate Clearance to The Crankshaft Mating Surface. This Allows Oil to Create a Cushion Between the Crankshaft and the Sump/Oil Pan. Similar to the Way the Rod and Main Bearing Function in an Automotive Engine. Remove the Spark Plug, Cutter Deck and Belts from the Engine. Remove the Engine Pulley. Using a **Face Shield** Have Someone Turn the Engine and Watch the Engine Crankshaft Bolt Hole. If the Crankshaft Wobbles while the Engine is Turning, then the Crankshaft is Bent and Replacing the Seal will Not Correct the Problem. If the Crankshaft is Bent; Either Replace the Engine or have the Ctankshaft Straightened. If the Crankshaft is Not Bent; then Replace the Seal. Usually you can Use a Screw Driver and Carefully Pop the Old Seal Out. Then Using a Section of Pipe the Matches the Seal Diameter and is a Few Inches Longer than the Exposed Crankshaft Knock the New Seal In Place. Replace the Pulley and Other Components and the Leak should be Repaired. With the Actual Model Numbers (the Numbers you Included are the Series Model Numbers); You can View a Breakdown of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://www.emerichsales.com/home.asp and Select Shop Online, Parts and Accessories. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM (Cub Cadet) and Enter the Proper Model Numbers (Usually Located Under the Seat). Then Double Click on your Model. Now Welect the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John