Guys thanks for the assistance. It�s taken me a while to get back to this mower. Been repairing a heap of mowers as the grass has been growing flat out down my way!

I ended up taking the valve springs and retainers off and removed the metal cover underneath the rocker cover (exact name for this I am not sure. See my pictures.

They pretty much confirm AVB�s assumption that the gasket was leaking.
I have ordered the kit from my local mower shop for $25 as AVB suggested. Just completed my last outdoorking order so got it from my local.

I haven�t taken the head completely off this type of engine and just wanted some tips before I do it. I am assuming its pretty standard to re-install the valves that I will have to remove the engine head. Since the head gasket is coming in a kit � should I replace it if the unit is un-damaged?

Next question relates to lapping the valves � I have only completed this process for a side valve engine and not an OHV engine. Do I need to complete this process (not the engine is running absolutely perfectly minus the rocker cover valve leak of course.
The over head valve engine�s I have worked on to date have only ever required valve adjustments and I haven�t really had to remove a head yet for repairs (it had to come eventually). So any pointers you have in this process would be greatly appreciated.
Sorry one last issue was in relation to one of the springs having a round guide underneath � note the other did not. Hoping someone more experienced could clarify.
For the benefit of others I should note this type of engine does not use a standard gasket (quantum type that most people sell) between the air filter and carby. You need the special OHV gasket to get consistent 1 pull starts.
Theo thanks for your theory, I will note it for future chonda�s however I am pretty sure it�s the gasket in this case.
Sorry long post � but I just want to make sure I get this right.
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