I went to check the oil level in my car and found white foam/condensation on the dipstick and in the oil filler neck. I know this is not a good sign and I am going to change the oil today. Could it be possible that when I changed my emissions set-up this summer, my oil system is not getting proper ventilation? I attached two pictures to this thread, one with the stock emissions setup, and one after my modifications. Did I make a mistake by just venting the catch can to atmosphere, should it instead be attached to an engine vacuum line?

 

Start Saving money.. It is a pretty good sign the end is Nigh.... Pretty soon the coolant buzzer will start going off...The add coolant light should have read "add engine".... Check the color of the coolant it probably is a mild color of dirty yellowie brownie green.....

Sorry for your loss..

 

There's a chance it's just winter condensation. A slim chance, but... a chance.

Change the oil & keep an eye on it. If it was just condensation at the top of the filler cap/dipstick, you might be OK. If the oil comes out looking like a milkshake, it's time to pull the engine apart.

-=Russ=-

 

It's entirely common to see this if you've started the engine and driven a short distance before shutting it off. Also could be a sign of PCV system that's not working properly.

 

I have checked the coolant level and the coolant color looks fine, but the overflow resivoir was a little low, but this hasn't been unusual, because I think I have a coolant leak somewhere and for a while now I just have to add a little coolant every month to keep it topped off. The question I still would like answered is having the oil vent line open to atmosphere not good? Do they need to be hooked to a vacuum line from the engine to give proper ventilation/suction?

 

Having the catch can connected to a vacuum source helps alot because you want to create negative pressure so it draws the fumes out easier.

I agree with everyone though, your engine may be letting loose a coolant seal. I'd pull the EGI fuse, open the cap on the fill neck, and have someone crank the engine over while you look for bubbles. Then put the EGI fuse back in, leave the cap off, and start the engine. If you tap the gas the coolant should go in, not splurge out.

Oh yeah, get one of those coolant pressure testers too, that can help test the system too.

 

Or just drain the oil and look for a milkshake...

-=Russ=-

 

Normal in cold weather and the engine not getting hot enough to gasify the moisture. Don't fret, it's essentially a cosmetic thing.

 

Well, I changed my oil and it seems to be normal. I ran to the store and back and checked and found no condensation. I will keep a close eye and check my oil daily to see if I find any changes. Has anyone who has removed there emissions and just vented the oil system ever had similar experiences? Does venting allow condensation into the oil?