Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 13HP Snapper-WHITE SMOKE-Spilled OIL???, rubber gasket, oil plug

Question
I just bought a used Snapper riding mower yesterday with a 2001 13 horse engine. Everything was fine when I checked it out and ran it, etc. before I bought it.
When I got it home I started cutting grass and when I drop the blade to cut a BIG Puff of WHITE smoke comes out of the engine. It only seems to do this when lifting or dropping the blade.
The seller just changed the oil, and has it at the right level. The oil plug was loose, so i tightened it, but still did it.
I THINK the seller spilled some oil into the top of the engine when re-filling it with oil.

Could this be the problem? If so then it should eventually stop, right?

The engine runs great and it cuts great too.

William

Answer
Many engines do this when put under a load.  As long as the white smoke stops after you engage the blades, then I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Keep an eye on the oil level.  If you frequently add more than 4 oz of oil at a time, then I would start checking the engine.

Does the engine have a dip stick with a rubber gasket at the bottom and an o-ring on top, where the threads are?

Let me know.
Eric