Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecemush Engine Repair, crankcase oil, crankcase breather

Question
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Followup To
Question -
Sorry about the spelling of the engine type.  I have just replaced my 12.5 riding mower engine with a new short block engine.  Everything is great except when the mower is on any kind of on incline leaning to the left side of the mower and engine, the engine smokes.  This is also the side of the crankcase breather and engine air intake. I am certain this is where the oil is coming from but why?  The crankcase breather is new, installed correctly, air filter is clean.  Please help!

Thanks,  Rick
Answer -
Hi Rick,

I would double check the oil level.  Is it smoking out of the muffler or from an external leak?

Let me know.
Michael

Michael,

First thing I checked was the oil level.  I even lowered it, checked the viscosity, etc.  It is smoking out the muffler.  Get the machine level or to the right side and everything is fine.  I took the unit to  a lawnmower shop today, they are clueless as to the cause.  The short block I bought is identicle, I measured the dip sticks and everything.  I just don't know.  Please help.

Thanks, Rick

Answer
Hi Rick,

Smoke from the muffler means that the crankcase oil is getting into the combustion chamber.  This can happen by the crankcase not being vented, piston blow by or through the valve stems.  Why it happens only when tilted to only one side, I don't know.  Probably due to the engine configuration.  None of these things should happen with a new engine...but.  I would check to see if it is coming out of the breather into the carb.  That would give a place to start.

Let me know what you find.
Michael