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Tricky oil problem

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  #1  
Old 10-03-2008, 11:49 PM
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Default Tricky oil problem

I'm stumped, and my gearhead brother & sister don't know what to do either...

I have a '91 s10 Blazer, 4.3L engine, automatic, 160,000+, has been a great vehicle - I hauled a packed trailer down from Alaska across the Alaska Highway last year and she was awesome.

Anywho, I knew the oil needed changed, but then it seemed it was running low so I just wanted to put a quart in to get me to the weekend. I checked the dipstick and yes, the oil was really low. (I might havea leak somewhere, there is sometimes a big puff of gray smoke when I start her). So I took off the oil cap and started to dump a quart in, but only half got in before it started overflowing out the spigot, as if it were full. I stuck my fingers in to see if there was some blockage but I couldn't feel anything. I put the cap back on and started the engine, hoping it would get sucked down into the oil pan. I let the engine run for a bit, then turned it off and checked the dipstick again, still really low. Took the oil cap off and the fresh oil was still right there, ready to overflow.

What on Earth is going on?I can'tpicture whatwould stop the new oil from getting down into the oil pan. I hate to take it to the mechanic if it's something simple...

I would love to hear some theories!

Thanks,
Jen
 
  #2  
Old 10-03-2008, 11:52 PM
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Default RE: Tricky oil problem

Sounds like you have sludge buildup on the top of the heads that is restricting the oil passages which allow the oil to return to the pan.
 
  #3  
Old 10-04-2008, 01:06 AM
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Default RE: Tricky oil problem

you should prolly get that checked asap.. oil starvation = new motor/blazer
 
  #4  
Old 10-06-2008, 07:45 PM
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Default RE: Tricky oil problem

X2 pull the valve cover check for blocked hole
 
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