Oil Leak

[jimdonovan66]

Hey, My Craftsman 6 hp lawn mower just started leaking oil from the shaft that spins the blades (At least that's where I see it coming out). It leaks more when I tilt the back end up. Being a mechanical novice is there any way to fix? I didn't hit any stumps or anything like that. The blades spin fine. It still mows perfectly when there is oil in the mower. It seems to be leaking a lot of oil. I have the engine model# if that helps. It's 143.996004. The engine family # is WTPXS.1851BA. The mower is 12 or 13 years old.

 

[mechanic mark]

Looks like you need to replace bottom or lower crankshaft seal. Engine has data plate with model xxxxxx, type xxxx, trim xx, and code xxxxxxx. Google Briggs & Stratton Manuals, then lawn mower, then numbers for correct parts list. Drain oil and turn mower on its side with carburetor side up topside to facilitate seal replacement. Inspect crankcase for cracks.

Seal | Part Number 495-242 | GUARANTEED FIT from Sears PartsDirect item 75

REPLACEMENT PARTS Diagram & Parts List for Model 143996004 Craftsman-Parts All-Products-Parts | SearsPartsDirect engine parts