Oil consumption
 

Hi guys

Recently went a long (200 miles round trip) highway run, with my stock 52 F1. I did an oil change prior to the trip. So I know, level was good at start. I pretty much kept it at 55 mph, the entire ride Truck ran great, however this morning, I see I’m down a qt. I would guess this is normal, as the engine hasn’t been rebuilt to my knowledge.

Truck does not smoke and with normal local driving it doesn’t burn oil.

What’s your thoughts?

Re: Oil consumption
 

Let's see. A 70 yo unrebuilt flathead. 55mph for 200miles. Down a quart. Sounds good to me. 8^)

Re: Oil consumption
 

Did you check the pre-trip oil level after the filter was filled?

Re: Oil consumption
 

Thanks guys and yes canister was full. That’s was a good thought and certainly would have made a difference.

Re: Oil consumption
 

Install a PCV valve; it'll help a LOT.

Oil consumption
 

Have you ever performed a compression test? One thing mentioned in the old Motors Repair Tune Up manual in the Tune Up chapter, worn piston rings and cylinder bores will result in lower compression. But it goes on to say that oftentimes the issue isn't necessarily excessive wear, the problem is stuck piston rings due to carbon and gum varnish, and will cause low compression readings. "A solvent will help with this".

After 70 years it would not be surprising if there is some of that going on. This would also tend to cause problems with oil control. I'd be inclined to try Marvel's in both the crankcase oil and in the fuel tank per their directions. It was designed for this purpose and it does work really well at removing carbon.

Re: Oil consumption
 

Add a quart of oil and keep on truckin!

Re: Oil consumption
 

Keep a couple spare quarts of oil in the tool tray on top of the gas tank and drive it.

Re: Oil consumption
 

You could pull the spark plugs for a quick look. If they all look about the same you're good to go. If only one or two are oil fouled, you could have a broken ring or a wrist pin keeper has broken and the wrist pin is gouging the cylinder wall.