Comments on oil consumption

[StarPD]

Older G50s and new F50s may have oil consumption issues. Many Q45 owners use synthetic motor oil.

For those who aren't aware of it, synthetic oil does not produce blue smoke like conventional motor oils do when it burns. Accordingly, we cannot trust keeping an eye out for the tell-tale blue exhaust smoke that results from worn valve guides/seals, or worn or improperly seated piston rings.

Also, synthetic oil can seep past seals and gaskets easier than conventional oils can.

Many of us are aware of this, but some younger, and even older members may not be.

This is why especially if you use synthetic motor oil, you should make it a habit to check your oil level frequently.

Of course, while you're at it, might as well check your transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid, as well as visually inspect your belts and hoses and tire pressures. Remember the old adage about "***-U-ME" ing everything is okay, just because it SEEMS to run fine. Surprises are usually expensive, as a number of posts in this forum can attest to.

[qship96]

not so sur about synthetic oil burning not leaving a trail of blue smoke,as witnessed by all cars behind my old 300zxturbo when the engine began to consume oil-lots of blue smoke!{used mobil 1 only}

[StarPD]

not so sur about synthetic oil burning not leaving a trail of blue smoke,as witnessed by all cars behind my old 300zxturbo when the engine began to consume oil-lots of blue smoke!{used mobil 1 only}

I guess I should have been more specific.Synthetic oil doesn't produce as much smoke as conventional oil. But not much will stop extreme oil consumption from leaving a trail of blue smoke.

It's still a valid warning.

[92Q45guy]

not so sur about synthetic oil burning not leaving a trail of blue smoke,as witnessed by all cars behind my old 300zxturbo when the engine began to consume oil-lots of blue smoke!{used mobil 1 only}

Tell me about it. My older 1988 pontiac firebird would burn a lot of oil after start up. Those cars had problems with the valve seals. I only used full synthetic in the firebird.

[Q45tech]

The Q has viton seals which don't wear fast but they can be deformed by varnish on valve stems.............same with rings which need periodic chemical cleaning..................the purpose of BG Quick Clean for Engines ~~$10

http://www.dupontelastomers.co...otcom

The following patent explains methods and various solvents and how you mix a blend to gain the most cleaning action:http://www.freepatentsonline.com/6830630.html

[szh]

Of course, while you're at it, might as well check your transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid, as well as visually inspect your belts and hoses and tire pressures. Remember the old adage about "***-U-ME" ing everything is okay, just because it SEEMS to run fine. Surprises are usually expensive, as a number of posts in this forum can attest to.

Your points about regular checks under the hood are extremely correct. Regardless of whether you see smoke out the back or not!

Z