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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Engine/Drivetrain => Topic started by: 87ChevyMan on March 06, 2013, 09:07:13 am
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Hello all,
I recently did some major engine upgrades on my '87 Chevy pickup. I swapped out the stock swirl port heads for higher compression Vortec Hybrids, along with a bored out Edlebrock Performer TBI intake, Voodoo Mild Cam and all new valve train components. I also had a custom chip burned for the new cam, heads, manifold combo. (Radical performance difference by the way). I have changed the oil 2 or 3 times since the overhaul (about 150 miles put on the engine), and the last time I drained the oil I noticed that my oil had a bubbly, milky substance in it--Very much like antifreeze mixed with the oil. At first I passed it off as residual break-in lube from my cam swap. But I've been noticing consistently low coolant levels in my brand new radiator, and there are no leaks in the hoses, water pump, etc. Each time I fill the reservoir back up, and check again, the coolant is low. I have checked the oil on the dip stick and it is clean, but I'd be willing to bet if I drained the oil, there would be milking film in the oil again. I'm starting to freak out a little bit, because I'm wondering if I've blown my brand new head gasket? Or maybe it's just my intake manifold jackets leaking... Anybody got any suggestions on how best to trouble shoot without tearing the engine apart?
Thanks for the help.
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First I would drain the oil to see if in fact the coolant is going there.
Pressure test the radiator with a coolant pressure tester. If you suspect it in the oil pan pressure test with the drain plug out. See if you get coolant out of the oil pan when pressure is on the coolant system.
Also check your spark plugs. If you have a blow head gasket you will notice the plug from the cylinder in question will be very clean, vs. normal dark color. Also check out the tail pipe to see if there is evidence of coolant there.