---> HELP! Burning oil and need to PASS SMOG in LA...

[Mojo]

I've got a '91 with about 240,000 miles on it. I've brought it in for
oil changes pretty much every 3,000 miles. The compression is still
good. I have a very minor oil leak that is so small the mechanic at
the local shop (Brainstorm, an all-Miata garage) tells me not to worry
about it.

The thing is, I've been slowly burning more and more oil. I did a
test recently and clocked in at burning through exactly one quart in
1,000 miles.

I'm mainly concerned about passing my upcoming smog test here in
Southern California. The guys at the shop say the only way to fix the
problem is to have them install a new engine! While I know this is
ultimately the best solution in the long run since I want to keep the
car (and I am very grateful the engine has lasted as long as it has) I
really can't afford 3 grand right now just to pass the smog test.

Any suggestions? I just put a quart of Rislone in it at the
suggestion of the garage. I also see there are additves designed to
help with oil burning. I'm thinking of putting some of this stuff in
a week or so before I take it in for the smog test.

I use 5w30, since it seems to help fix up an ongoing problem with
lifter clatter (but when the oil gets low it comes back).

I've seen some debate about using 5W30 - would moving up to a thicker
oil help me at this stage?

Any advice would be most welcome. I have until the end of September
to get myself ready for the big test!

Mojo

[Anonymous]

"Mojo" <Miata...@my.computer> wrote in message
news:3ibfjuk589374btu2...@4ax.com...

Hello Mojo,

Are you sure it won't pass? I wouldn't rely on the shop that wants to sell
you a new engine to do the test. They might have, uh, another agenda. Just
because it uses some oil, doesn't mean its NOX etc. will be over the limits.

I recently junked (as in sold to the State of California under the get the
old cars off the streets deal) an old foreign car that used about a quart
every 300-400 miles. It ran OK (except for smoke if you jumped on it), had
a good cat converter, and would pass smog.

I'm suggesting that before you buy a new engine or even do crazy things with
sawdust in the oil, that you simply be sure it is in good tune, has clean
oil, and see if it will pass.

Cheers,

Mike

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