Is this normal?

[Jayman]

Hello everyone!
Was hoping to get some feedback on this picture. Can anyone tell if this might be cause for alarm? The orange oil cap colour was noticed when I was adding oil the other day.
Thanks!

 

[NJTB]

I wouldn't worry about that, but would keep an eye on it. Looks like short trips, winter driving, moisture didn't have a chance to burn out of the oil.

 

[C-ya]

That is exactly what mine looks like. And like NJTB said, those are my exact conditions. I don't like it, but it's not like I want to make a 20 mile loop to get to work so the engine can get up to a higher temp fora longer time. Keep an eye on your oil condition when you check it and maybe change it a little more often. I have about 20% left on the OLM and I'll be changing here soon for that reason.

 

[Jayman]

Appreciate the feedback guys

Great to know it's not serious.

 

[Paul Bell]

See if there's any oil residue in the coolant overflow bottle. Check for higher than normal motor oil or transmission fluid levels.

If the transmission cooler in the radiator is leaking, coolant can get into the transmission which will make the clutch packs fall apart.

If there's a head gasket leak, coolant can get into the oil which will wipe the bearings.

 

[Jayman]

Are head gasket leaks common on the 5.3's?

 

[Paul Bell]

Not really. They seal better than old school small blocks because the bolts tug from the bottom of the block, allowing it to seal better than old school small blocks.

 

[Sparky]

I get that in the winter from short trips too on my 4.2L. Had some gunk like that when I changed my oil recently. Just wiped it off and went on.