Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Engine trouble, blown head gasket, twin cylinder engines

Question
I have a Craftsman (Model# 917.273770) with a B&S 22hp OHV Intek motor.  I was mowing, it died and has not started since.  It has a full tank of gas.  I replaced the fuel filter.  It appears to have good spark on both plugs (went ahead and replaced plugs).  The air filter is clean.  I pulled the plugs, poured small amount of gas in the cylinder, tried starting it and still nothing.  I pulled the front cover and noticed old oil all over the OHV cover, carb down to muffler just on the right side.  About 1 month ago, I did notice white smoke coming from the muffler while mowing then it stopped.  I am desperate.  We've had lots of rain and the grass and weeds are taking me over.  Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hello Dwayne:

Is the Crankcase Overfilled and have a Gas Smell? Check the Compression? A Blown Head Gasket will CAuse this Problem. Check the Valve Clearance. The OEM Says .004in on Bothe Valves. I Do Not Use the Setting Called for by the OEMs. I have Found that the Following Works Best. Remove the Valve Cover (on the Dead Cylinder for Twin Cylinder Engines). Set the Cylinder you are Setting the Valves on to Top Dead Center (Both Rocker Arms will have Play in them when the Engine is at TDC) When Setting the Valve Clearance. Now Loosen the Valve Adjuster Locks and Set the Intake Valve Clearance to .003in -.005in and the Exhaust to .008in - .010in. I have had Better Performance Out of the Mowers and Less Burnt Valves Using these Settings. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. 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