The white goo is most likely from water condensed on oil. But I wouldn't yet jump to any conclusions about where it came from. I'd do two things first. One is sozzle that breather cap (I'm assuming you're talking about the cap on the valve cover, where you pour the oil in) in kerosene or diesel to clean off the accumulation you have, and watch it going forward. Let it drain and air dry before you put it back on. More importantly,I'd also drain the oil from the crankcase to see if there's any water in it. Do it with the engine having been still for a couple of days, and hold a clear jar under the drain to catch the first quart or so that comes out to see what's on the bottom. You mention antifreeze. If you get some antifreeze in the bottom of the jar, then you may have a leak in the head gasket or around the o-rings on the sleeves or a crack somewhere. If there's antifreeze in the cooling system and you get some amount of clear water (i.e., no antifreeze) out of the crankcase, I'd say your only problem is likely condensation, which would be consistent with water condensing like dew in the breather cap. This could be coming just from the spring weather with its dew points, or it could be from keeping the tractor inddors in in a space that's only occasionally heated. I know I cringe evry time I turn the heat on in my garage and see the condensation form on the outside of my recently re-done BN, 'cause I know the same sweat is forming on the inside of the motor. That's the reason that oil changes are ecommended not just for miles or hours run, but also for periods of time.
|