Hi,

I'm new to this forum (from New Zealand), but have already found it useful to diagnose my problem. My rideon mower erupted in a cloud of white smoke yesterday, and from what I have gleaned from this site my problem is a dud carb float or needle valve not sealing causing fuel to enter the crankcase. Indeed, the crankcase oil was overfull and smelled of fuel. In the meantime I did a compression test (110 psi - seems ok?) and removed the head to check for any mechanical damage (none evident) or blown head gasket (not apparent). There was so much oil/fuel in the combustion chamber it's a wonder it didn't hydraulic and bend the con rod!

My question: is it common practice to have the head skimmed before fitting a new head gasket, or is it ok to fit a new one as it is? Should I grind the valves even though there's no evidence of blow-by?

Thanks in advance,
KiwiAde

No you do not need to do anything to the head. Since you already have it off you could clean and lap the valves, but it's not necessary particularly of you have low hours on the engine. I would recommend a new head gasket when you put it all back together.

Best of Luck... :thumbsup: