71cutlass350

I recently replaced the head gaskets, timing chain, intake gasket, etc... , and also had the heads rebuilt on a 71 455 and I'm still trying to work the bugs out. I noticed between the head and the exhaust manifold there always seems to be moisture between the too and when it warms up it smokes. This is only on the drivers side right above the dipstick. I'm assuming its oil but I have no idea where it comes from or what causes it. Hopefully nothing serious but this has been a learning curve for me so a mistake on my part is possible.

oldcutlass

You need to determine if it's oil or coolant. Most likely it's your valve cover.

71cutlass350

Should have added that in, I originally thought it was oil from the valve cover because it was leaking slightly right above the moisture areas so I went ahead and put a new one on and made sure it sealed up good with no leaks now, however the smoking and wetness is still there. Ill see if I can figure out if its oil or coolant.

oldcutlass

Use some simple green or ivory dish soap and wash the area and see if it comes back.

71cutlass350

Sprayed simple green and scrubbed it good, Ill let it dry and start it up tomorrow and see if I can spot where and what is seeping out. Thanks

Olds Scott

Did you seal the threads on the manifold bolts for installing

don71

The five exhaust bolts on an Olds should not reach water, unless there is crack or some other condition present. I might suggest the addition of a dye and uv light to narrow it down after you've done what is already suggested.

ROCKETMAN269V

Do you happen to recall what head gaskets you used, brand and part #?

71cutlass350

I used FEL-PRO 8171PT1 and didnt put any sealent on the threads of the bolts.

boese1978

I have seen this a little bit on mine, I chalked it up to the diff in material between the aluminum head and the different metal of the manifold, they cool and heat at different rates. Obviously if you have stock iron this would not apply. Mine is plain old condensation- I used toilet paper to see the color of the "water".