I have a Briggs mower engine that is "burning" oil...it turns black very quickly and smells of gasoline when I change it. I have been told it is the carburetor.

Can someone tell me why gasoline would mix with the oil and where this might occur? I haven't seen the engine (other than removing the head) so I don't know where oil flows within it.

THANKS.

If the carburetor is flooding fuel through it, gas can fill up the cylinder and then flow into the crankcase.

If it's just running too rich, all the fuel will not burn out of the cylinder and some of the remaining unburned fuel will get past the rings and into the crankcase where it will mix with the oil.

Thanks. Does it sound like an easy fix...changing the fuel inlet needle maybe?

Could be, if the carburetor is flooding fuel then that the first thing I would check and or replace.

Hope I'm not asking too much now. I have a page showing the carb assembly for the engine, but have no idea what I need to order so I can replace it. I mean, no part says "fuel inlet needle" so I don't know what it is. Any help?

Engine numbers 120602 - 0138. THANKS.

Or I can get one of these kits called "Kit-Carb overhaul" and/or "Kit-Needle/Seat"?

Thanks again!