Grinding noise and white smoke

[julian_s]

Hi I was using the lawnmower for the first time this season. I heard a somewhat of a grinding noise, like I was running over something, then white smoke started coming from the lawnmower. I didn't add any oil, checked the oil before I started, seemed okay level. There was gas from last year still in the tank that I used. If I start it now, there seems like less smoke but it will start smoking more after running and stalling a bit when idling. The machine is in its 5th season.

Any suggestions or diagnosis ? Thanks Julian.

 

[slomo]

Did you look under the deck to see if its all clear under there? Might have a cat or rodent nest up in there. Mice on top of the flywheel? Engine full of oil?

slomo

 

[julian_s]

Did you look under the deck to see if its all clear under there? Might have a cat or rodent nest up in there. Mice on top of the flywheel? Engine full of oil?

slomo

Thanks for the reply. Engine was not full of oil. There was nothing underneath where the blades are, but I am not quite sure what constitutes the deck of the lawn mower.

 

[julian_s]

I drained the oil, put in new oil and made sure the level is accurate. I start the mower and it works fine for a few minutes and then starts blowing white smoke.

 

[lefty2cox]

What does it smell like and where is it coming from? The exhaust? Look for a sticker with a model / serial number and post it.