Oil level, smoke on start & turns - sanity check

skipdup · 03-10-2005, 07:44 AM

OK, searched the archives but just want (need) to make sure...

Think I've made another newb move.

Did my first Porsche oil change (and replaced the oil level sender while I was at it). I added 8.5 quarts after emptying both reservoirs, drove the car until fully warm, - then with car running, added more oil until it reached the max line on the dip stick.

The next day when I started the car, it's smoking for the few minutes as I let her warm up before driving. Smoke seems to decrease the more it runs. It finally "seems" to quit smoking, so I drive. I notice around turns (specifically I noticed on right turns) it lays a bluish/white smoke screen that would make James Bond envious.

Based on some of the posts I found on this topic, seems like I have an overfill condition. Was my error filling up to the "Max" level? I didn't fill over the max line, but it's on it. Also, on a level surface at idle, the oil level gauge shows just into the red - so that seems to be working correctly.

Should I empty some oil out? Or, just let it burn off the excess?

Anything else I should look at? The car has 24K...

I'll probably try and figure out how to open the air box and check for oil. Is there a trick for that with the 930? ... it's a very tight looking fit in there!

THANKS!!!
Skip

Wavey · 03-10-2005, 08:35 AM

I'd say you're overfilled. It's amazing how much the oil expands with increased temperature, so you want to be sure it's FULLY warm, like to 180, when you check it, and that you're on a dead-level surface. I usually fill it to 1/2 way between the marks on the dipstick, never over 3/4.

Another tip - before you shut it off, let it idle for a minute or so - you'll see the gauge come up and you'll be leaving a minumum in the crankcase, hence less smoke on the next startup.

silverc4s · silverc4s's Garage

skipdup,
I had a similar problem once - smoking on strtup and right turns a lot - otherwise okay. This was a 2.4 L Carbureted 911, but the similarities are there.
My problem turned out to be a foolish fill with Quaker State 10W 30 Synthetic Oil. It was just too damn thin for the valve guides.. drained & refilled with Mobil One 15W 50 and problem dissappeared... millions of happy mosquitos!..;-)

Rot 911 · 03-10-2005, 10:48 AM

Wavey is giving you good info. The upper mark is too full!

RickM · RickM's Garage

You're now officially a 911 club member.

Paulporsche · 03-10-2005, 12:39 PM

Drive the car for a few days and you will see the level go down to where it should be. Since you are only at the full mark, you will probably not have to drain some out.

Wavey · 03-10-2005, 01:13 PM

But if you feel you must remove some oil from the tank, it would be easier to use a battery filler (bulb & tube) or a turkey baster to draw some out.

skipdup · 03-10-2005, 02:52 PM

Thanks all.

Quote:

You're now officially a 911 club member.

Too funny. The sad part is... I know over filling is a problem common problem!!! I did my research, re-read Wayne's o-change section, thought I had my bases covered.

The other part I didn't mention... When people say the oil evacuates the oil reservoir fast... they mean REALLY FAST! My 15 quart catch was plenty big enough, just wouldn't swallow quickly enough.

My new garage floor... Skip was here!

- Skip