I'm happy to say I may have spoken too soon regarding the death of my E-350.
I have a few questions for those more mechanically inclined...
So when I see massive oil consumption on any vehicle, I usually assume piston rings. Strange thing about my van's issues was the oil consumption was so sudden. It went from 0 when I parked it last to rolling coal this afternoon. A telltale sign of worn rings is usually oil burning at startup, from oil seeping into cylinder walls. However, I don't get any oil burned at startup, just a cloud when I give it throttle. This makes me think PCV. Is it worth a try replacing it? Seems like it! Between the suddenness of the issue and the lack of gradual failure, I have hope. Anyone have any tips/insight on diagnosing the PCV valve compared to piston ring failure? A friend who is a full time diesel mechanic also sggested the head gasket could be the culprit?
I appreciate any tips.
It's definitely a possibility! I had a similar failure in my old 1994 BMW 540i, the CCV valve failed after I drove that V8 like a maniac going down an on ramp having fun. It started making a horrendously obnoxious gobbling noise and burning oil like I was smokescreening for a retreating fleet of ships, haha.
I replaced the CCV valve (BMW's goofy terminology, Crankcase Ventilation Valve vs Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve, they do the same thing). Before I changed it, that car burned a quart of oil once a week. Afterwards, it had absolutely no oil issues anymore. I got the OEM part at a dealer for $30 because I had an old car and saved a $2,000 repair bill at a shop.
That would sure be a relief. $1.99 for the valve at autozone is certainly better than any other of the options.
I always change out my PCV valve at each oil change. It is cheap insurance against expensive engine repairs.
Is the PVC valve really that important?
couldn't you just block it off at the intake manifold and vent to the air?
Yes and a lot of people do that. You'll see a small, round filter perched on top of the valve cover. Unfortunately, it's illegal on emission controlled vehicles. Proceed at your own risk.
Of course, a compression test would be the best indicator of the condition of the rings, either good or bad.