Oil in Spark plug wells

[ratbag]

So, we F I N A L L Y got the Prot-evo running yayyy!!!! Pics to come

However - after running around in it for a couple of days, we noticed some oil in the spark plug wells and a fair amount on the "top cover" (valve cover, or what have you).

Around the same time, we realised the valve cover "pressure relief" was blocked. Unblocked it, didn't think anything more of it, was running good.

Now, we got back from a good run (read:drags !!) where it ran "okay", but could have been better. Next morning, found oil literally everywhere!! Dip stick was "out" as well. Fair amount of oil in the spark plug wells again.

Oh, and we've found a valve cover bolt loose - can't tighten it, appears to be broken, or stripped!

I haven't taken the cover off yet, as, for one I don't know what I'm looking for.

From reading, it appears I made need to replace the valve seals and valve cover seal. And, obviously get the bolt fixed.

My question is: am i in the right direction with repair? I have read that worst case scenario it could also piston rings?

Is there anything else I should do / look at, at the same time?

Cheers, and thx in advance.

 

[EvoMayhem]

If your dipstick has popped, after having cleaned out the PCV (the one way valve at the back of the cam cover) I'd be suspicious of your piston ringlands being cracked. This leads to boost pressure leaking past the pistons and pressuring your crankcase.)

Its not an Evo III engine by any chance, is it?

 

[ratbag]

yep, E3 engine

 

[4th]

get a compression/leakdown test done

 

[evo-gsr]

What EvoMayhem says.

 

[ratbag]

Will do, cheers guys

Also, can you remove the PCV ( and / or block the return to the intake manifold) and re-route it to a catch can?

 

[EvoMayhem]

A compression test won't confirm this, only a leakdown test will. Do it on a warm engine.

You can fit a catch can, just block the port on the inlet manifold.

 

[EvoMayhem]

I should clarify that. Route both breathers to the catch can, don't only route the PCV one. You'll be sucking unmetered air from the catch can through to the engine, rather than through the MAF.

 

[ratbag]

Cheers guys, will take your advice and get one done.

Much appreciated!