I just found a special on the web for two of those "special" wrenches for 29.95. I wouldn't have bought them....but for that price (brand new too) I figured it was a good deal. I had been looking on e-bay for months for a used set and they sell for big bucks on there. I saw one auction where the set went for $90!

I also order (for $7 and some change) a set of valve stem seals. I figured I have nothing to lose by replacing them when I do my valve adjustment for the first time....sometime very soon. The new seals may help....they may not. I have a feeling that the rings and/or cylinder walls are very worn allowing excessive blowby and that is probably where I am losing my oil. I once took the oil cap off while the car was running and the "puffs" were about 12-15 inches high off the top of the valve cover and there was a fine "mist" of oil spray that came with the puffs. Given that information, does anyone think/feel that a quart of oil could be consumed in 450 miles?

As I said before, it is probably a waste of time for me to replace the seals....but it could help too. At any rate, I need to adjust the valves and I am just waiting for my new set of "special" wrenches.

thanks,
mike