Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawnmower, fresh oil, acre area

Question
I have a Craftsman 17.5 hp ride on mower with Briggs n Stratton engine. It has a manual which says all is really user serviceable...have had it two years (not overused just a 1/2 acre area grass kept pretty short always)
Recently its started smoking... I serviced it at beginning of year with all proper stuff from the retailer.... is there any chance there is something wrong that won't require getting a whole new engine???

Answer
I would start by checking the oil level.  Is it over-filled?  If so, does it smell like gasoline?

In either case I would start by changing and refilling with fresh oil.

I doubt you need a new engine unless it was previously ran with oil or it was was used with gas in the oil.

Eric