Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): change oil on Craftsman Eager 1 6.5, craftsman eager 1, oil drain plug

Question
Hi Eric,

2 issues with my Craftsman Eager1 6.5hp engine model 143 bought in 2001:

1.  When my “I can’t believe I have to do this!” 14-year-old son was mowing the lawn today and he was shocked when plume of blue smoke erupted from our mower.  After he regained his courage and started to mow a second time, when a second even large plume of blue smoke ejected from the poor machine.  I came running after hearing his yelp, fearing there was an emergency.  We then observed it was very low on oil.  I was deeply relieved he wasn't hurt and quite annoyed that he didn't tell me what had happened the first time.  I was 5 minutes into a stern lecture when I proceeded to over filled the oil.  Who was grinning now...

I am not sure how to drain some oil.  Yes, you guessed it; I've misplaced the manual and have not done any maintenance on the machine during the past 5 seasons except change the spark plug.  Sounds like I need the lecture.  How do I change the oil?

2.  It starts than dies after about 10 seconds, I find I keep on having to press the 3X red choke button to keep it going until it warms up.  This is annoying but tolerable.  After reading Michael's responses it appears to be a dirty carb.

I thank you for any advice (and lectures) you may offer.

Thanks & regards,
Mal


Answer
REMOVE the spark plug before doing any work!!

There is a oil drain plug on the bottom of the engine.  If the unit is self-propelled you may have to remove a belt guard to access the drain plug.

Another method you can use is to have your son help you tilt/tip the mower and allow to oil drain out of the dip stick tube.  

As for the carb, you can try removing the float bowl nut located on the bottom of the carb and draining the bowl.  Make sure the holes in the float bowl nut are clean.

The mower should hold about 1/2 a quart, 16 ounces of SAE-30 weight oil...this is based on draining the oil from the engine.

If there is oil in the muffler you may want to remove and clean the muffler with parts cleaner.  This will reduce smoking but it may still smoke for a while until the oil burns out of the muffler.

When all is done, and the spark plug still removed, pull the string over several times to remove any excess oil that may be in the cylinder.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric