Hi there folks, new here and ned some advice! I looked at a 96 2500 2wd the other day with a view to buy. The truck had 190,00 miles on it with a five speed trans. Is it usual to see vapour coming from the blow-by tube at the bottom drivers side of the motor at idle? The engine was up to operating temp. Thanks.

 

Not unusual. You shouldn't see much out of a warmed up engine on a warm day, but I wouldn't freak out about a little wisp of smoke out the breather tube. If it was fogging out the whole street, obviously that's a problem. If you can see it from inside the cab, that's a problem. It's much more noticeable in cold weather, especially when the truck is being worked hard.

 

Weeeelll, it depends. You say the motor was up to operating temperature. What was the outside air temp? (There is nothing in your post to indicate your location.) If the outside air is cool, you may see more vapor than at other times.
Ask the owner how much oil he uses in 1000 miles and between oil changes.
Take a look aft of the tube and also all around it and see if there is any evidence of much oil being blown thru the tube. Also look for evidence that there was oil and it was washed off just prior to you looking at the truck. Any oil dripping from the tube after you park it?

 

Thanks guys, is was in Tx and the air temp was 85c and the truck was at operating temp just idling. Its a used dealer selling it so I cannot really rely on them for vehicle history. I just looked like vapour, no oil drips. Thr truck ran strong, no smoke but did have a fair amount of oily crud on the front end, hopefully seal or gasket related and not a cracked case from a KDP!

 

If the oily crud starts about halfway up the front of the engine, it's probably KDP damage.

 

Yep thats what scares me, I guess the only way to know for sure is to remove the front cover. I would probably have to buy it to find out for sure, kinda risky!

 

"Thanks guys, is was in Tx and the air temp was 85c"
Dang, does it really get that hot there????? According to my calcs that is about 185*f!!!!

 

The Texas versions of the Rams have ONE battery and TWO airconditioners.

 

Oooops, I meant 85f, sorry and thanks for the answers/input!

 

We know you did, but hand this bunch an opening like you did and someone is sure to be quick take the mickey out of you.