Craig,
The amount of oil that you seem to be looking at is probably caused by
pressurization of the crankcase. This, in turn, could be simply a lack of
adequate ventilation to allow pressure to escape or a broken ring allowing
too much pressure to build up.
Start by doing a dry/wet compression test on the engine or a leakdown test
if you are so equipped to eliminate the question of rings and valve guides.
Once the compression portion of the engine has been given a clean bill of
health (or while you are waiting for help doing that), take a look at the
crankcase ventilation on the car.
"New PCV" does not necessarily mean "correct ventilation". Bill Perry from
Rivergate recommends two 1/2" hoses vented to atmosphere. Any pressure
buildup in the crankcase will gleefully pour oil out the laughable scroll
seals the English consider adequate as seals. Try plugging the carb vents
(if it has them) that point inwards and upwards, plugging all manifold
vacuum except that feeding the distributor vacuum advance (if fitted), and
opening the oil filler hole. If this eliminates the problem, your seals are
fine.
Unless the compression/leakdown test(s) show a problem, there is NO need to
pull the engine unless your name is Frank Clarici and you find it easier to
reach things with the engine on the bench than to lean into the engine
compartment ;-)
If this mechanic does not UNDERSTAND British cars, he has a long steep
learning curve before he can justify charging you money for his opinions.
David Lieb
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