12 HP Briggs Oil Leak

[4xbill 2]

I have 12 HP Briggs in my Simp 725. Tonight I notice oil leaking from the under the head XX(. I am no expert, but there shouldn't be oil on top like that, right? Obviously the head gasket has gone bad. Are the rings bad too? That's the only way I could imagine the oil would be getting to the top side of the cylinder. Advice? Thanks

[fastallis 0]

unless the tractor has blue smoke in the exhaust then you do not need rings. The oily substance is probably a mix of fuel and exhaust. John

[4xbill 2]

I think you're right fastallis. I never retorqued the head after the last time I cleaned it. Torqued it when i reinstalled but never after 5 hrs of use as some reccomend. Replaced the gasket and torqued the blots down. Seems fine now. Starts easier too:D. I'll retorque them next weekend. thanks