Re: burning oil (not too long) (archive)

: ok, i know that a car burning oil can be a symptom of different things. i know messed up rings is one of them. can anyone mail me a list of what burning oil could be. i am considering trying to fix this myself if i can. it will help me learn more about my car in general. thanks
: matthew bajda

First of all, your engine is a little tired most likely. If it leaves a big cloud on decelleration, it is usually a sign of valve guides. If it just burns it all the time, it is probably rings. It could be both easily tho.

First thing is change the oil. Put in 20-50 Castrol GTX. This seems to be the oil of choice. Don't run synthetic at all--ever unless you just rebuilt the thing. I have had some good luck with a product called "Hyperlube" that is a heavy additive like STP. You might also try a can of "Restore". After that, you should change your driving habits. This is not a race car, it is a tired old lady. If you are running a strong carburetor like a 38/38 or DCOE 40's and even a 32/36, you are probably putting too much gas in the car and washing down the cylinder walls causing premature aging and excessive oil consumption. A good Solex is the best carb in your case. Next, don't press the car so hard. You don't need to go to the redline on every shift--Keep it to 4,500 or so, particularly in 2nd and 3rd. When you do decel, push in the clutch or feather the gas a bit as you come off.

After you rebuild the engine, you can go with the big carbs.

Mike

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