93 Maxima Fuel in Oil

[93 blue max]

I have a 93 maxima that has been getting fuel into the oil. At last oil change I had the oil analyzed and it came back to be 3.84% concentrated with fuel. I can also notice it on the dipstick, as it is probably 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch over the full mark. I believe I have a leaky injector(s), but have not noticed hardly any change in engine performance. Is there anything else I should check before I dive into diagnosing each injector? What's the best method to find a leaky injector? Thanks! Forgot to mention it is an SOHC.

[MinisterofDOOM]

Fuel in oil...Any smoke coming from the exhaust? It could mean your rings aren't sealing properly.

To find a leaky injector, run the engine for a bit, then pull the plugs one at a time. See if any look fuel-soaked or fouled. If you find one, that's probably the cylinder with the bad injector.You can also try testing the injectors' resistance with a multimeter. They should come in between 10 and 14 ohms. If any of them look out of spec there, they you've probably found your culprit.

[mtcookson]

It could also be an injector o-ring so if the electrical aspect of the injectors are ok, that would be the next thing to check.

Another easy way to check the o-rings would be a fuel pressure gauge. Let the system pressurize and see if the fuel pressure holds steady or if it drops (with engine off). If it drops somewhat quickly you likely have a decent leak somewhere.

[93 blue max]

I checked all of the injectors and they all check within spec. I also pulled off the fuel rail and then turned the key to let it pressurize and then monitored it for leaks. I didn't find any leaks in the rail or pressure regulator. That would make me think there aren't any leaks by the injectors. I'm not having any power problems so I think that I would notice that if it were the rings. Any other ideas? I'm at a loss here. Also, how do you get the distributor off? I can't get the back two bolts to come off. (10mm wrench I think) Trying to replace the valve cover gaskets while I have it all apart! Thanks for the help. Where should I put a pressure gauge in to check the system?

[93 blue max]

Should I go ahead and change the o-rings while I'm in there?

[mtcookson]

That is very strange. I don't see it likely for there to be fuel in the oil if the injectors aren't leaking. I suppose if it was running pretty rich it might be possible. If you do a compression test that'll give you a bit of an idea on the condition of the internals.

As far as pulling the distributor, its actually just one bolt holding it in, the one that allows you to adjust the distributor.

Also, if the o-rings are stock it wouldn't be a bad idea to change them just to be on the safe side.

[93 blue max]

I've pulled the front bolt on the distributor and cannot get it to budge. There are two 10 mm bolts on the backside of the distributor as well. Are these holding it or does it come apart before that? Can't get it off to save my life and those bolts are next to impossible to get to. Any other way to get the valve cover off without pulling distributor? I was going to pull the A/C line and I think it would come off, but don't want to have to recharge the system.