Water in the oil?

[btaylor507]

Hi I have a 1987 Regal Sebring with a 165 merc 3.7L that I just purchased for 2K. I went to change the oil today and it looks like a milkshake coming out. This engine was converted for salt water so the cooling is internal. The motor does run good if that makes a difference. I know its probably a cracked block or a head gasket but I don't know how to tell though. I'm extremely upset because I can't run it and I just bought it. I know this is a serious issue and I'm wondering what I'm looking at. Any replys will be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys.

 

[cooter2506]

Re: Water in the oil?

Cracked block on a not so well liked engine around here. It came factory with the closed cooling system. They have alot of issues so be prepaired for the not so bad news from all.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Water in the oil?

The 3.7's can leak antifreeze into the crankcase thru bad cam seals, so does not necessarily have to be a cracked block. There are kits for that, searching this board will turn up lots of help. and lots of "oh no" too, but it is what it is.

And the 3.7's came stock with fresh water cooling, some had to convert to 4" heat exchangers form 3" but they come with the anti-freeze system stock.

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Water in the oil?

I would suspect the head gasket first...I've gone through several.

The 470 engine does not like to get hot, and I am going to figure out some way to install an overheating buzzer, like my 3.0L has.

Pull the head (not too much of a problem)...and examine your head gasket.

Good luck!

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Water in the oil?

ok here's what I did. I pumped the oil about halfway out (took about 3 hours cause it was cold) and was told to just start it up for a min or 2 to warm the oil and it will pump faster. So when I did it filled back up very quickly with water. So its has to be a cracked block right?

 

[mmccoy555]

Re: Water in the oil?

Does it overheat?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Water in the oil?

Did you have antifreeze in the closed cooling section or just plain water?

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Water in the oil?

I couldn't tell because the gauge didn't move and yes it is the closed cooling system. I also just called and left a msg on the guys answering machine. I just basically told me what was wrong and the ad said it was in good running condition and this is in horrible condition. My son was excited about going for a ride and now I have to tell him that it might be a while. Most likely not this year if I can't get a refund. I seen a new motor online for 1800 +shipping but that's not a option right now.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Water in the oil?

If there is any hope at all to get your money back then do it!
That motor will nickel and dime you to death and is about impossible to find parts for.

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Water in the oil?

This may sound stupid but is there any other motor models that would match up to that outdrive?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Water in the oil?

This may sound stupid but is there any other motor models that would match up to that outdrive?

Nope,... Not Easily anyways...