How much oil is normal?

[PDBreske]

Another question about the bus I looked at today:

It's a 1995 Thomas front-engine flat-front design with a 5.9L Cummins engine and 112,000 miles. We popped open the small access hatch in the engine cover and there is what I would call a good coat of engine oil on all the surfaces. This oil spray also can be seen under the bus on the engine and transmission, but it doesn't go past that point toward the rear of the bus. In fact, everything past the tranny had no oil that I could see. Here's a picture of the engine:


How much oil is acceptable? Should I be looking for a very clean engine or can I live with a certain amount of leakage? (My Jeep has a couple of very small oily parts, but it doesn't have over a hundred thousand miles on it.) This bus sees almost daily use in Jacksonville and is also serviced and inspected regularly.

Thanks!

[GreyEagle]

First thing I would do is clean the engine and compartment.
After that I would drive it for awhile then follow up with weekly/monthly checks to see where and if it's leaking....
A clean engine runs cooler which can add miles to your engine......
best of luck..

Grey

[PDBreske]

Originally Posted by GreyEagle

First thing I would do is clean the engine and compartment.
After that I would drive it for awhile then follow up with weekly/monthly checks to see where and if it's leaking....
A clean engine runs cooler which can add miles to your engine......
best of luck..

Grey

I haven't bought it yet, but thanks for the advice. What I'd like to know is if this seems like a reason to pass on this bus and look elsewhere.

[GreyEagle]

Well, I am no expert...... But if it runs good, sounds good I would (probably) have it checked by a diesel mechanic before I dropped my cash,
after that it's his cash and your problem if there is one...
best of luck

Grey

[bapos]

One very simple way to tell if its minor is get a socket, extension. and socket drive and tighten the valve cover. With lots of heating and cooling they work thier way loose. Not saying the gasket is loose but if you get it a 1/4 turn it could be a contributor to the oil leak issue.

[Stuff]

first question... does it use or loose oil? if it doesnt then i wouldnt touch it lol