Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn tractor with low oil, twin cam engine, google search

Question
John,
I have a 1 year old Toro lawn tractor with a 20 HP Kohler® Courage Twin Cam Engine.  The start of the cutting season I checked the oil and proceeded to cut the lawn (takes about 2 hours) about 10 times over a couple months.  I then noticed a "burning" smell and discovered that the engine was a full quart low on oil before it was filled to the proper level on the dipstick (the engine oil capacity is 1.5 quarts).  Once filled is has been running fine for the last couple of cuts but wanted to see if there is anything that I should do or look out for? Yes, the obvious one would be CHECK THE OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH USE!  Something that I knew before but still didn't heed the proper attention.  And also there was no oil leaking from the engine so I guess the engine is burning all this oil.  Is that normal and/or can an adjustment be made?

I read many of your helpful answers when I did a google search to this site.  Great job with your knowledge that you are providing and appreciate your insight.

Answer
Hello Brian:

All  Air Cooled Small Engines will Use a Small Amount of Oil During Each Use. My Commercial Equipment Uses About a Quart Every 20 to 30 Hrs. I have had Enough Seized Engines to Know. LOL. From your Description, it Sounds like the Oil Consumption is Correct; 2hrs @ 10 Times with 1 Quart of Oil Loss. Like you Said; CHECK THE OIL BEFORE EVERY USE!!! The Reason for Checking the Oil Each Time is to Ensure an Oil Seal Did Not Get Damaged During the Last Engine Use. Now; Thanks for the Kind Words. I Did Not Know I was on Google. 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