Firstly I would like to say that I got this thing for a steal knowing it was previously neglected but I would like to still save myself some money if anybody has any ideas. My engine is burning and leaking oil. When I got this thing about 3k miles ago I was told that it just smoked a little bit on start up. It was actually a couple quarts low when I got it but I did an oil change, with a list of crap to get it more roadworthy. Well the filter started getting covered in oil so I replaced it, along with the PCV valves and cleaning out the throttle body. I never had any leaks to begin with but now its leaking from the filler cap, oil filter adapter and rear main, who knows where else. It appears to be burning oil intermittently also. At idle itll be fine one day and the next it will puffing smoke out of the tailpipe. I dont ever see smoke pouring out of the exhaust while driving though. When I changed the plugs they looked good, not caked in oil or excessive carbon deposits. It has 170k miles on it but it runs strong and I get 14 MPGs with 33s on stock gears so I dont think the motor itself is on its last leg.

 

head gasket?

 

Do a wet and dry compression test to determine if the rings and/or valves are O.K. or if it's a head gasket problem.

 

i performed a compression check before. just a dry test though, no wet test or bleed down. couldn't do the bleed down test cause i had a cheap gauge from autozone i borrowed. all the cylinders read good compression though. i can borrow the gauge again and do a wet test. what does that tell you though? what all am i looking for in a compression check?

 

You're looking for 120-150 PSI, no more than 15 psi difference between cylinders. A wet test is adding oil (teaspoon at most) to the cylinders, especially if low, if the PSI comes up rings are worn, no change, cracked head, Head Gasket, burnt valve,etc. Biggest thing is consistent PSI for all cylinders, and looking at the adjacent cylinders that you dont have 2 low cylinders together as this usually is a sign of cracks, or gasket issues.

 

alright guys, ill borrow my buddies gauge and report back. i seem to remember that all the pressures were between 135 and 155. the two that were at 135 weren't next to each other. im still getting blow by into the intake filter though like the rings are shot. but they arent reading too low... maybe a couple are too high... man idk