Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Engine Oil, question pool, oil seal

Question
I changed the oil in my Murry 12hp B&S engine. After mowing for a little while the engine started dying. I checked the oil again. It looked like there was no oil in it. I added enough. Then the same thing happened again. Almost instantly after running it for a few minutes the oil is black as soot.What am I missing?

Answer
Hello Steve:

>>Sorry for the Delay. This Question was Located in the Question Pool and I can Only Answer Questions from the Question Pool when I am Not Answering Questions here or at the Other Site I Answer Questions at. Also, I have Just Returned from Vacation.
>>From your Description it Sounds like the Lower Crankshaft Oil Seal is Leaking and Requires Replacing.
>>This is Usually caused by Grass, a Small Rope or Something Wrapped Around the Crankshaft at the Oil Seal or the Crankshaft is Slightly Bent and Requires Straightening.
>>Check Under the Mower for an Oil Leak.
>>The Black look to the Oil is Not Unusual for Small Engines, plus it has been Run Low on Oil and this Makes it Blacker than Normal.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/ and Enter the Model Numbers  and the Type Numbers(XXXXXX-XXXX-XX) in the Appropriate Box and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John