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Classic/Antique Car Repair/i have water in my oil

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Expert: - 1/15/2009


Question
i own a 1999 chevy suburban 4x4 350 small block. i had my oil changed about 3 weeks ago. shortly after having it done i started loosing water but could find no leaks. so i then asked a friend about it and they checked my oil. it was about a quart and a half over the full mark. it kind of looks like melted chocolate. what do you think could have caused this and whatv do i need to do to fix it?

Answer
It sounds like the probability of a blown or leaking head gasket. It is time for a radiator pressure test and a test to see if carbon monoxide is getting into the radiator. In other words get it into a competent mechanic if you do not have the skills. Do not drive with this mixture in the crankcase as it will damage the bearings.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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