1983 300SD - 55,000 miles since engine was rebuilt.
I pulled into the driveway tonight and the engine did not shut off with the keyswitch. (Never happened in the 5 years I've had the car.)
I grumble and pop the hood. While reaching for the shut of switch in the near dark I notice the oil fill cap is missing. I frantically push the switch and kill the engine. The whole top of the engine is an oily mess. The engine sounded normal over my fervent chanting "Oh Crap!"
I drained the pan and got 2.5 quarts out while the car is pointed headfirst down my 20 degree sloped driveway, so I might have had another half quart or so in there. Hopefully the engine is unscathed.
Already got her refilled with 15W40. I'm a pretty religious gauge checker, but I can't remember the last time I looking at the pressure.
What should I check before I pray and try to start the car again?
Does the car normally have to be shut off manually with the cap missing or did I create another problem?
At least the timing was favorable. The only two major problems I've had with her showed up between my driveway and the exit of my subdivision.