The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Pretty good puddle from blow by tube

Got a 47 one ton panel with original 216. It was a fire rescue vehicle all its life, so sat still mostly. It has 44,000 original miles. I just got it and have replaced the head gasket, exhaust valves and stem seals (0 ring, not cups). It starts and runs really well. There is a puddle of fresh oil that drips out of the blow by tube after I drive it and let it sit in garage. I’m not very concerned but would like some input from seasoned bolters as to what might be happening here. Thanks in advance! David

How far are you driving on these trips? Unless you get the engine fully warmed up and spend some time at cruise speed, you're not doing much to deal with the problem. I'd suggest spending at least 2-3 hours on a road trip that lets the engine get fully warmed up and enough load put on the piston rings to make sure they're still seated properly. 40K miles on an engine that doesn't get run up to normal operating temp on a routine basis might have worn out the piston rings. Do a cylinder leakdown check to see how well the rings are sealing.
Jerry