Ref a 1998 B & S 14hp OHV engine model 287700, type 1236E1, on a Dixon ZT mower. It is slowly dripping oil from underneath the engine. It appears I will need to remove the engine to see what part is leaking. In my search for the leak, I did find one motor mount bolt extremely loose; not sure that is related?

Recent history/last month, engine would not start/turn over easily; adjusted the valves which fixed this problem.

Now an oil leak.

Any thoughts? tks, mac