Ford 4 cyl. diesel - diesel fuel getting into oil

Tom in TN

Well-known Member
I have an old style (1963?) Ford 4000, 4 cylinder diesel tractor that apparently is getting diesel fuel into the crankcase oil. I checked the oil level yesterday and it is above the full mark on the dipstick. I drained the oil today and it is very thin. There's no sign of water in the oil. It is brown/black but is very thin. I can't differentiate the smell of oil from diesel fuel - it all smells like petroleum to me. The engine does blow some blue smoke when it starts and some when it is running.

Any ideas?

Thanks,

Tom in TN
 
Is this the 172 engine? If it is the injector return lines are inside the valve cover. If one leaks it puts diesel in the oil.
 
As already mentioned, injection pump drive shaft seals, and/or the injector top return line. Usually it's the pump seals, pump could also need the steel pilot tube replaced that the seals ride in as they can be worn enough over time that new seals may not hold.
 
Most of the time you can bet money you need a reseal. Simple job for a experianced pump man. Price should be in the 350-450 range. Any more you are getting hosed. Any less and they are skipping something. These most times come back to bite you. Watch out for the dont worry you can do this yourself guys. Some fellas can do their own, some guys its a little more than they can chew. Just because you have some old dealer repair books doesnt mean the job will go well. Gauge your time, and skill level and choose what is best for you. If you do choose to send it out make some calls and ask questions.Dont just pick the first guy to answer the phone. Pick the one that feels right. There are plenty of great guys out there that can fix you up at a fair price. Al
 

As has been said there are 2 possibilities, most likely of these is the pump drive shaft (umbrella) seals.

As has also been said some of us can do this job ourselves. Some others need to hire it done. If you feel you have the knowledge and skill to tackle this yourself, a reseal kit for your pump can be had on eBay (and some other sources) for less than $40.00. This will also contain all the seals and the governor retainer ring for your pump. If it's been years or many hours operation since your pump has been resealed it likely needs the governor retaining ring and a good thorough cleaning as well.
 

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