[calgarygringo]

It could be some water. Loosen of the drain screws and drain some oil out the bottom end into a pan. Let it sit for a while if mixed if not mixed you will see right away the water come out separate from the oil. Not a good sign after the cold winter. Water expands and can do damage inside. As long as nothing major is cracked a small engine like that is not too hard to fix the bottom end. If something in the main housing cracks it can cost you some bucks. I would drain it fist just for my own better feel. If it is just straight oil it may only be a seal that need replacing. Still a pain in the butt to do but not costly. More for the time or labour than the parts. Have done several bottom end rebuilds in my time so am a bit familiar with the gearcase area.