[SGragg]

Checked the oil level last night before starting; empty. Put oil in, started it up, yet couldn't tell where oil was leaking.

Pulled it around into the shed and turned it off. Removed top/front heat shield and loosened side shields enough to see down alongside and in rear of engine.

Started engine again and could see oil down at the rear base of the engine, near the starter. It looked like the oil is getting to the flywheel, then being flung up and around everywhere. Earlier, when I reported oil on top of the engine, it was probably directed there by the shields coming off the flywheel.

Regardless, this is a repair I cannot make. Looks like I'll be hunting for another mower to finish up my mowing season (1 month, LOL).

Does this sound like a rear engine seal gone bad? Opinions?