I need to clean out, or at least check the oil separator and have a few questions.

I check the flame trap at every oil change ~3000 mi. When I blow through the hose to the flame trap, I can feel air at the oil filler cap.

However, When the engine is really struggling, like going up a hill, I can smell fumes and assume I'm building up pressure in the block. I add about 1/2 qt between oil changes and can't see that it's burning any, at least not obviously so.

Would checking the oil separator be a good place to start?

Any other blockage points I need to check out?

I just hate to think sometime I'm going to blow a seal or something that could be prevented.

Thanks

Mike

1988 245, 224K mi, 5 speed