Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): WHITE SMOKE, ohc engine, hp honda

Question
I have a 3 year old Craftsman, rear wheel drive, 5.5 Hp Honda OHC engine with BBC.  The other day after about 10 minutes of mowing, I heard a soft pop and then a great amount of white smoke poured out of the right side of the mower (from the muffler I think).  The mower will start, however, white smoke is still coming out of the muffler but in much smaller quantity.  Is it safe to use the mower?  What happened?  Thanks

Answer
 Hello Ann:

 Check for Gas Smell in the Engine Oil. It Sounds like the Head Gasket May have Blown Between the Head and the Valves. The White Smoke is Oil Smoke and I dont Suggest Using the Mower until the Cause is Found. You May do More Damage to the Engine and a $100.00 Repair will be Turned into a $500.00 Repair. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John