Oil Pressure Dropped, then the noise started

[Guy ManDude]

I think I need some help. While driving down the road the other night, the oil pressure dropped to almost zero, and smoke started coming out of the tube that connects the top of the engine to the air filter housing. I stopped and the pressure came back up. The dipstick read full.

Had no choice but to drive home (4 miles).

this weekend when I went to start it, it started fine, no smoke, good oil pressure, but after about 30 seconds at idle, a horrendous banging about every 1.5 seconds started. Sounded like it came from the engine itself. I shut it down.

This is way beyond my mechanical ability, so it's going to the shop here in town that works on 40's.

Any idea what it might be?

 

[bikersmurf]

Does it sound like loud knocking on a hollow wood door? I'd guess you've spun a rod bearing. Does it get worse with engine RPM?

 

[bikersmurf]

I'd be looking for a rusty 60 for a heart transplant... 3B or 2F would solve that problem.

 

[Guy ManDude]

Yes, it increased if I touched the throttle and it sounded like someone was inside the oil pan knocking it with a hammer.

Will this be easy for a mechanic to troubleshoot? The guy I use is a great 40 mechanic so i'm assuming he's seen it before but before I get it to him, I would like to know what's coming (cost wise).

If it is as you suggest, is a new engine the only solution? Is this because there are no parts available?

 

[FJ40Jim]

New used engine is the least expensive and quickest solution.

Parts are available, but it takes time to get them and can cost money.

 

[Pighead]

If it is just a rod bearing, it can be a fairly cheap and easy fix. Easily diagnosed by dropping the oil pan. Unfortunately, you get into the "While I'm in there" dilemma...

 

[winnie]

I think the reason for the 3B/2F suggestion out of a 60 is they're newer engines, and the 3B is a diesel option ... I'm not a mechanic, but your description tends to lead to a bearing issue ... re-building what you have may be an option once the issue is diagnosed because it doesn't sound like you damaged the block ... parts are still available ... the good news is you have a mechanic that knows 40s ...

 

[bikersmurf]

A mechanic will know the sound.

In my case, I spun a bearing, and it already had a cylinder with oil fouling problems... I was looking at 3 grand for just the rebuild... No labor to remove and reinstall. I see used 2Fs all the time for $300, and complete Bi60s for $600-2500(for 2).

 

[Guy ManDude]

Thanks for the replies. Just loaded it on the tow truck. Let you know what they find.