Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): OILY EXHAUST, crankcase oil, model craftsman

Question
I have a late 90's model craftsman 42" deck riding mower.  For a couple of years I have had a problem with the cylinder filling with gas and hydrolocking.  Instead of fixing it properly I have been parking it on an inclined slope which helps the problem.  About a month ago I started it, it ran very rough then began to spew very oily waste out the exhaust.  I shut if off immediately and have not started it since.  To me it appears I am getting gasoline in my crankcase but I do not know how.  Have I ruined my rings?  Do I need to rebuild the motor?  I am clueless.    Rich

Answer
 Hello Rich:

 You May be OK. Drain the Oil and Allow the Crankcase to Vent for 24hrs. Refill with SAE30 Engine Oil. Install a Manual Cutoff Valve in the Fuel Line to the Carburetor and Turn the Gas Flow to the Carburetor when the Mower is Not Being Used. There is Gas in the Crankcase Oil. **BE CAREFULL THE OIL WILL IGNITE EASLY** It Seeps by the Rings when the Cylinder Fills Up with Gas. If the Engine Hasn't Locked Up or Started Knocking; the Engine May Still be OK. Actually, the Parking on an Incline was Helping the Gas Into the Crankcase, even though it was Slowing the Cylinder from Filling with Gas. The Oil Blowing Out the Exhaust is From where the Gas has Seeped by the Rings and Overfilled the Crankcase and Now the Oil has Gotten Too Thin. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John