Diagnosis??

[E36_325i]

Hi Guys

Need some advice...

I have a E36 325i. My car is using about 250ml of oil every +- 1000 km's. I have replaced the valve cover gasket 3 weeks ago & have checked underneath the car & its bone dry. So today I took my car to a private mechanic (against my better judgement) to get a 'Diagnosis' as to where the oil is going. I was hoping the there was a external leak which was perhaps dripping onto the motor somewhere & burning explaining no visible oil leaks but the mechanic says its my rings that are worn, When I asked how he came to this diagnosis he said 'I just know' He charged me R180 just to jack up the car have a look & come to the conclusion my rings are gone!:dropjaw:

My car doesn't smoke when driving normaly (That I can see) I have however noticed that under very hard acceleration when it hits about 4000 RPM that it does puff out abit of what looks like 'Grey smoke'

Does this diagnosis I got sound right?

Sorry for the rediculously long post.

 

[rick540]

Smoking under acelleration is usually rings, but then 250ml per 1000Km is well within spec and I wouldn't worry about it.

Check the owners manual, they allow something stupid like 1 liter per 1000Km

If you are still concerned ask them to do a dry then wet compression test, if it passes that, then no hassles.

 

[E36_325i]

Smoking under acelleration is usually rings, but then 250ml per 1000Km is well within spec and I wouldn't worry about it.

Check the owners manual, they allow something stupid like 1 liter per 1000Km

If you are still concerned ask them to do a dry then wet compression test, if it passes that, then no hassles.

Wow, 1l per 1000 Km's is rediculous... This mechanic reckons I shouldn't worry bout it, just top up the oil & keep driving it. He says it will still go for a long time:thinking: What's the differance between a dry & wet compression test?

Thanks Rick

 

[StK]

Check the owners manual, they allow something stupid like 1 liter per 1000Km

Its 1l - 1000miles not Km still not that much better.....Worth doing a compression test and a sniff test for peace of mind but 250ml per 1000kms is within spec :thumbsup:

 

[2LV2]

R180 and u'r just less than halfway to a pressure gauge...... :hammerhead:

Remove spark plug and fit pressure guage to Sparkplug hole, crank engine and check reading against spec.

Dry Test: As the engine stands
Wet Test: Add a bit (Only a litle mind you :nono: ie 5ml) of oil to the cylinder through spark plug hole.

If there is a difference in pressure between dry and wet test: The rings are worn.:cursin:

A favorite issue with high mileage BM's is worn valve guide/ seals. Easier to repair.

However, 1l per 1000km is well within manufacturer's limits. If fuel consumption and performance is OK, leave the motor, it will carry on for many miles. :thumb:

Just remember to fill up the oil regulaly

 

[E36_325i]

Thanks for the info guys, appreciate it. I'm not going to worry about it then, I'll carry on treating it like every BMW should be treated & in a few years trade it in for a 330i