Hello,

I recently installed a new engine in my 122 and have been driving a bit with it. Not much, mind you, as everything is not 100% done. But a few trips around the block every now and again. In fact, the trip odometer is up to 3.1 miles now, and around 30-40 minutes of running time.

When I tried to check the oil level after one such trip, it was very watery in consistency. So I changed it. The oil that came out was also really black, as if I'd waited too long before changing it. Everything in the engine is new, so I imagine here's a bit of break-in wear with the rings, but is this color normal after so little use?

There is also oil leaking from what looks like between the tranny and OD unit, onto the cross member. Can I pray that the seal comes back to life, or do I need to think about replacing all the seals in both units? I bought them as a unit and never had them apart.

Also, just a little report: As soon as I can get an exhaust hung and get it licensed, I suspect this is going to be one fun car. Everything was lightened and balanced, and I removed the fan, opting for an electric jobber. Even a small tap on the throttle seems to make the engine roar!! It's hard to tell with no tach (yet) and no exhaust, but it seems like it revs easily and is actually pretty quiet, all things considered, and very smooth. After about 1000 miles of just tooling around, I plan to really see what it can do. And the real test will be at Thunderhill in April! I can't wait. It's crazy, though, because while I'm driving and for a good while afterwards, my heart just races! It's all so exciting and stressful and scary at the same time.

Thanks