Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 280707 Type 1174-E1 - Rebuild?, breather vent, crankcase breather

Question
John - My B&S 280707 Type 1174-E1 has been in serice on a lawn tractor for 10 years. It runs 1.5 acres per week for 7 months out of the year. It starts and is running "OK" with no apparent loss of power and it does not stall. Recently, I see some oil near the exhuast at the front of the tractor. The engine appears to be running hot (As in you feel the heat when standing within 2 feet or so) and I see white smoke from the oil filler when I remove the cap.

I am suspecting that all of this is a sign of end of life, though I would be glad to hear of other possibilities. I would welcome advice on whether to rebuild this engine or have it rebuilt if that is what is needed. I have kept the tractor in good shape and expect that I could get another 3 to 5 seasons out of it (provided the transmission holds up).

I may try to take on the rebuild myself if I can find a good repair manual. I have been to the B&S page and they have several books on repair. I don't see a service guide on this specific model. Can you advise on a good source for a service manual? Can you advise on what a 10 year rebuild should include?

Answer
Hello John:

Check the Oil for Gas Contamination. If Not Contaminated, then When was the Last Time the Blower Housing was Removed and the Top of the Engine Cleaned Off. Check the Flywheel Key for Damage. If it has Even a Slight Nick in it, Replace it. It Does Not Take Much on the Flywheel Key to Increase the Heat of the Engine Due to the Timing of the Plug Firing Changing a Small Amount. I have Seen the Muffler Turn Red and Glow because the Flywheel Key was Damaged and Not Sheared. There is No Power Loss when this Happens. At One Time I Did Suggest Rebuilding Engines. Now you will be Better Served to Purchase a Short Block and Use you Heads and Other Components on the Short Block. The Cost of Parts and Machine Shop Work will Cost More than the Purchase of a Short Block. What is the Cylinder Compression? When was the Crankcase Breather/Vent Cleaned/Replaced? Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting you Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John