Dipstick dry no matter what

[intheburbs]

Got it replaced…thanks everyone.

Now for the original issue. The smell. There was smoke coming from inside the engine compartment and I could smell something burning. I traced it back to the top of the block. Smoke is coming out of what seems to be a crack. Am I correct in thinking this is in the exhaust manifold?

Yup. That's your exhaust manifold. I would expect the engine noise would be pretty dang loud, too.

 

[rdezs]

Try and get a better picture. That actually looks more like the OEM casting line. Feel with your finger, you should be able to follow it down and feel the line that goes to the left.

If you're getting smoke and the smell of burning oil off that side of the engine.... Some engine degreaser sprayed on and a garden hose should take care of it. Crankcase vapors blowing out through the broken dipstick tube probably coated the underside of the exhaust manifold with an oily residue. Or just drive it for a while, it will finish burning off.

 

[rdezs]

Here's a photo of an old exhaust manifold I have in my scrap pile. Note the casting line?

 

[optimusprime]

I think you’re right. That’s just the casting line. Your theory makes the most sense. I really appreciate your help!

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Great to read that your issue is resolved. Please add the word "FIXED" or "SOLVED" to your thread's title, to let others who are experiencing a similar issue know that this thread has an identified solution.

 

[Doubeleive]

Got it replaced…thanks everyone.

Now for the original issue. The smell. There was smoke coming from inside the engine compartment and I could smell something burning. I traced it back to the top of the block. Smoke is coming out of what seems to be a crack. Am I correct in thinking this is in the exhaust manifold?

it's smoking because the valve cover is leaking, oil seeps out the leak and drips onto the exhaust manifold = smoke & smell