Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro w/BS Engine Smoke on Start, engine smoke, blue smoke

Question
I own a 1996 TORO WheelHorse Model #71185/6903150 with a B/S 28m 707-0127-01 engine. On every cold start it emits blue smoke for a few seconds and then it goes away. Sometimes it does not emit smoke until I engage the blade. I know it is oil, but is it something I need to worry about. Is there anything I can do except check the oil on every start?

Answer
More than likely it's nothing more than a little seepage and not something to worry about.  It could come past the valves or the rings and just a sign of old age.  It probably is coming past the rings and when you shut the engine down, the hot oil is slipping past the rings.  That would be consistent with smoking when put under a load as well.

If the plug is fouling out on a regular basis, then a rebuild might be not too far down the road.  

I'd just keep a close eye on the oil level and keep it changed regularly.  If it starts smoking on a regular basis, like all the time while it's running or the plug is fouling out with oil every five hours, I'd go ahead with a rebuild.  Thanks, PK.