Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lower crankshaft seal leak?, craftsman lawn mower, crankshaft seal

Question
hi. i just received a craftsman lawn mower from a family member which is newer and larger than the one that i previously own. i belive it has a tecumseh 6.5 horse. anyway it runs great but it leaks a little oil and upon removing the blade and thoroughly cleaning the mower it seams as if the oil is dripping right down the shaft. is this a crankshaft seal and if so what would be the procedure involved. thanks in advance.

Answer
The first thing you need to do is make sure the crank isn't bent.

Put the blade back on. Pull the plug wire off and tip the mower on it's side.  Have a helper pull the rope and look to see if the blade turns "out of round", it will be obvious.  If it's out of round, don't put anymore oil in and run it until it blows.  It will be extremely cool and no one will get hurt.

If the crank is straight, dig the old seal out with a screw driver and then knock a new one in with a piece of PVC pipe that matches the diameter of the seal.

I'm guessing you are gonna get to see an engine go BOOM!!!! Crank seals rarely leak.