Guest subdermal Posted July 11, 2004 Share Posted July 11, 2004 Just got my 260z back with the new 406 in it, have put on less than 100 miles. The engine ran great at first, but now I've got coolant steam coming out the breathers. It starts to do this almost immediately after firing it up. Oil pressure and water temp stay normal, and it still seems to run ok except for that, although I haven't let it run very long in this condition. What are the likely reasons for this? Head gasket? Cracked block? I've been taking it easy, haven't even floored the thing yet or had it near redline Very sad, for a few days there it was the most fun car I've ever driven... any hints appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaleMX Posted July 11, 2004 Share Posted July 11, 2004 Sounds like a head gasket although it could be the block or the heads. Did you use aftermarket heads? Were the steam vent holes drilled the heads? If not that could be the reason for the gasket failure. Have you looked at the oil to see if coolant is in it? Also you can look for oily resudue in the radiator to confirm your fears. I suggest draining the oil and checking it for coolant. If you find it then dont run the engine, pull the heads and check the gaskets and look for the steam vent holes that the 400's have. A real bad leak can hydrolock an engine and is not a pretty sight. That will bent rods, crack blocks etc... Dale Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JMortensen Posted July 11, 2004 Share Posted July 11, 2004 It's normal to get a little smoke/steam out of the breathers. Every time I put oil in my Toyota there is a little wispy steam looking bit of smoke that comes out of the oil cap. On my Z it comes out of the valve cover breather. It is normal. Unless the oil is milkshaked or you have some other reason to suspect that it has a blown headgasket, drive it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heavy Z Posted July 11, 2004 Share Posted July 11, 2004 Like Jon said. This could be normal, as condensation in the oil will burn off until the oil temp gets to around 240 degrees. Mine did this when cold too. Check your oil/radiator fluid to put you at ease. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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