Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Cloud of smoke and loss of power, breather vent, crankcase breather

Question
I have a Crafstman 42" lawn tractor with 17 HP B&S engine (311707). Quite frequently when I am running parallel to  a small slope the engine bleches outs a cloud of relatively light colored smoke and losses power. When I shut off the mower and get on flat ground the engine fairly quickly stops smoking and regains power. Very frustrating. Solutions?

Answer
Hello Bill:

From your Description, it Sounds like the Crankcase is Overfilled with Oil or the Crankcase Breather/Vent is Not Operating Correctly. 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 311707. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. Select the Cylinder, Sump and Gasket Set File. The Cranskcase Breather is Breakdown # 8. Clean the Breather/Vent or Replace if Required. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John