Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Problem with B&S Intek Engine, blown head gasket, briggs stratton

Question
Hi,

I have a Husqvarna riding mower (48" cut, Hydrostatic, Briggs & Stratton 24hp Intek V-Twin Cylinder OHV engine)

I purchased this mower brand new three years ago; I mow 1 acre (uneven and semi-hilly terrain) I always do routine maintenance using B&S parts: The mower has never given me any problems, always ran great until a couple weeks ago. I noticed that my oil level was down after just giving it an oil change several weeks before.  This was confusing since I didn't have any signs of an oil leak anywhere (no oil smell or even smoke coming from the exhaust)

This past weekend, before I mowed I did another oil change. The mower ran great, no signs of any problems and I was able to mow the entire property. Just before I was getting ready to quit, sitting at an idle, the engine all of a sudden made a loud pop and then a horrible sound; like rocks in a blender. I noticed some oil on the pulley located directly underneath the engine and I also checked my oil level and the dip stick was dry. What happened and where did 64 oz of oil go?   

Something obviously broke and by the sound of it, in several pieces.  Can this engine be repaired or is it junk?  The engine will still start despite this problem.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time.
Jo


Answer
First off this engine only holds 48 oz of oil.  My thoughts after your first paragraph was that you had a blown head gasket.  But then you kept on going.  The only way to get oil on the drive pulley is from a blown lower crank seal.  this is an easy parts swap. Carefully remove the old seal and pop in a new one.

As for the"rocks in a blender" if the engine still runs it is not an internal engine problem.  My first guess would be an idler/belt problem.

FYI... letting the engine cool down at idle only overheats the engine. If you want to cool the engine down when you are done, shut it off.