Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): troy-bilt 17.5 hp mower smokes and loses power, blown head gasket, briggs and stratton

Question
2002 Troy-Bilt, model #13CD609G063, engine Briggs and Stratton 17.5 hp, model 311777, type 0120-E1, The engine loses power and starts to smoke and consume a lot of oil when under a heavy load, like mowing tall grass. Starts easy when cold but hard to start after it starts smoking.  

Answer
 Hello Michael:

 If the Engine is Not Overfilled with Oil, then There are Several Possible Causes for this Problem. 1- Blown Head Gasket Between the Cylinder and Valves. 2- the Crankcase Breather/Vent is Not working Properly. 3- A Frozen/Stuck Ring (the ring has Seized to the Piston and Isn't Expanding with the Engine Block).  Check the Compression when the Engine is Hot. Remove the Cylinder Head and Check the Head Gasket. Remove and Clean the Crankcase Breather/Vent and Ensure it is Working Properly (the Breather/vent should Rattle when shaken, if it is Clean and Working). You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Addy http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the B. Then Select Briggs and Stratton. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Select the File Number 31. Then Select Folder # 311700. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John