Good to hear.
I remember when I changed the oil in my friends LT166 w/the 17hp engine (I think). The level was at the upper end between the hash marks but apparently this is too high for the engine and/or for the hilly terrain he mows, as oil would blow through his crank ventilation hose that's located between the air filter and carb. The mower didn't smoke that I recall but rather choked as the oil soaked the air cleaner element. Things have been running fine since, with the level no higher than halfway between the hash marks on the dipstick.
Take care.