The pick-up guy checked the oil before he cranked it up and it was a tad low... within range but below the "fill" line.
I had asked for instructions here on how to change the oil several months ago... and then I hit the stump and it went to the shop.
If I don't hear from them by noon, I'll call and find out what's going on.
I'm just so bummed out - all that mulch I put down around the trees and weed control I did back in the spring made the yard look so beautiful... and then the mower issues, and all the rain, and all the skeeters, and the heat... it's nearly out of control now.
I'm seriously considering paying a lawn service rather than buying a new mower if it comes to that point. I know money-wise it will be more expensive in the long run, but I think it would be worth it in saved aggravation.
Oh, and the smoke was kind of a dark bluish, blackish, gray? I don't know.