Classic/Antique Car Repair: ford engine, oil filler cap, overflow tube

Question
I have a 55 ford "y" block 272 engine. I just bought the car and it runs well, however it blows oil out through the breather tube. I removed the breather assembly, found the return oil line clogged, replaced the oil filler cap, and breather filter. I still don't know that this will cure my problem. I removed the valve covers to see how dirty the motor was I found it nice and clean but there was anti-freeze on the head on only the drivers side. What would you do. Do you think I should pull the motor and go right through it or start small with gaskets and see how it goes.

Answer
Hi Ken:
I just realized that a head gasket job is pretty expensive, so if that is what you need, let me suggest that unless you are trying to keep the original engine in pristine condition, you may want to try a gasket sealant to seal the old gasket. It's a lot cheaper and should last for years of classic car use. If you are interested in that options, I can make a few recommendations. Also, I didn't ask what may have cause this problem in the first place. Most likely overheating, so make sure you fix that problem as well.


Hi Ken:
Start with the Gaskets. If you are getting antifreeze pushed from the overflow tube on the radiator, that is an indication that the head gaskets need replacing. See if this occurs after you let her warm up and idle for a bit. This maybe all that is needed to solve the problem. Also you may notice a bit of white smoke out of the exhaust as well, if this is the case. Hope this helps.