I started my engine up for the first time today. This was my first engine buildup. After running it for a few minutes , I looked at the dipstick, and the oil was colored a light yellowish white. My first reaction was that water had gotten into the engine causing it to mix with the oil and foam. The color was similar to foam, but after closer evaluation , it was not foam at all. The oil felt greasy. Is it common for all of the break-in lube from the cam and other parts to mix in with the oil? The oil/ grease was mdistributed through the entire engine. I removed the valve covers and noticed that the grease/ oil had been splattered all ove the valve covers. I plan on letting the oil sit in the pan overnight to allow any water to collect at the bottom. I will change the oil tomorrow and check to see if their is any water in the oil. Any opinions?

 

Posted in the `OIL` forum also >>1. "RE: oil discoloration and strange consistency"
07-Jan-01, 08:46 PM (EST)


I vote for water in the oil. What type of engine are we talking about 302, 390, 351, 300 etc...?
Sounds like too much to be assembly lube.Check the `level` on the dip stick in the morning. If it is `high` ..past the full mark it.. has to be water i guess.
Slowly remove the drain plug and let some drip out on a clean coffee can lid. water will be there.


__JOHN__Õ¿ö
Member-
"Crusin North" Car Club
Santa Rosa, Calif.
72 F-250
ICQ#6030753
https://www.ford-trucks.com/pictorial/big/1972_f250_2.html

 

I agree with jbhf250 it sounds like water in the oil to me. I assume you built a Big Block Ford, if you did there may be an easy fix. When you installed the timing cover did you look for any pitting where water pump mounts, you could have a pin hole leak letting water into crankcase. If you pressure test it, this leak will show just like a bad head gasket or cracked head(it won't allow pressure buildup). I would check this before engine dis-assembly!!! I hope ths helps in any way.

Todd
BB79RANCH

 

Thanks alot guys, but it turned out to be the grease. I removed the drainplug a few minutes ago and let some oil out. There was no water. By tonight, water would have settled at the bottom of the pan. Thanks anyway.

 

Yes it is a big block Ford.

429 from a 71 lincoln
bored .030 over
badger pistons
new 68' police interceptior heads
SSI cam w/ hydraulic lifters
3 angle valve job
all new or reground parts
no cracks in anything ( magnafluxed )


by the way, i have a pair of 70' Thunderjet heads complete with new and reconditioned valves FOR SALE $100