Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): JD 170 tractor - engine smoking heavily - Kawasaki engine, blown head gasket, kawasaki engine

Question
My tractor started spewing smoke from the exhaust while operating. At first it was light smoke, but I could smell a burning smell in the air, then the smoke got heavier. Engine seemed to continue running well otherwise. Finally had to shut it off and it backfired with a flash out the exhaust, and smoke continued to come from the muffler for another 5 minutes. Is it time for a new engine? The tractor is 20 years old.

Answer
Hello Dave:

>>Check the Head Gasket.
>>A Blown Head Gasket will cause this Problem and Usually the Smoking Starts Suddenly while Operating the Engine.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy,
http://www.emerichsales.com/ and Select Parts at the Top of the Page. Now Fill Out the OEM Parts by Model Fit Section.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers 170 and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. All Follow up Questions are Accepted at Any Time. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John