MONSTERPRE

before you take apart the top end...buy a haynes manual...then:

1. rent a compression tester
2. pull the plugs
3. pop the fuel pump switch under the dash, and behind the gray kick panel.
4. perform your compression test.
5. good compression is a good place to start.

if you have a digital cam of ANY KIND you should post pix of what it all looks like you may not be burning oil...it could be a small crack on the timing chain cover.

this issue could be VERY SMALL...but it's best to start doing something about it now, and not waiting any longer.

POST PIX

djhives

This pisses me off! Not because you did anything wrong - but because I want you do be my neighbor! It seems like I am the ONLY 'oddball' who **LIKES** working on cars within a 100 mile radius! LOL! Only here do you find people who like to work on stuff...

Does anyone here feel like they are the only one in their neighborhood that is seen wrenching on a Saturday afternoon? Or is it just my neighborhood?

KentuckyCountryBoy

I hope it's something simple as the timing cover. I have a mechanic friend I might take it to after school and see if he'll check the compression. Where's that fuel pump switch at exactly?

djhives

Dont worry about it KentuckyBoi WE all go through it -- its called life, and it can be a sometimes - but the point is that you tackle your problems yourself , which in the end builds character and makes women want you more.

Always remember these words: YOU CAN DO IT!

Positive reinforcement goes a long way.

You wont be the first nor the last to do a head gasket on a 302 engine. Post up your digital pix here and let US take a look so WE can help you through it! Also as someone mentioned post up a pic of this 'milky oil' as well as the underside of your oil filler cap and radiator cap as well...

Take your TIME - don't rush art!

YOU CAN DO IT!

KentuckyCountryBoy

As far as I can tell, my coolant is clean. No oil visible in it.

farmer12

Chances are tho if there is water in the oil and you've been running it that way the bearings won't be to shiny. Water and crank/rod bearings don't play nice together.

KentuckyCountryBoy

I looked the engine over and I believe the timing cover gasket is leaking. There's visible antifreeze "dripping" from that area.

highballit

Hey while you are at it, stop by your local AP store and borrow their coolant sys pressure tester or stop by a rad shop and have them pump up 13 psi and play find tha leak, very possible your water pump is shot. You will be able to pin point it pretty quick using this method.
I have never had water in the oil on any 302 ive ownwed, it has always been exhaust side and blown exhaust into cooling sys causing ovrheat.

1996 Redneck F150

Either that, or the water pump is leaking from the "weep hole".

benbailey84

if the milky white substance on the oil cap only!, is just condensation not as serious, when you need to worry is when its on the dipstick...