Got water in my intake during a river crossing. Engine bogged down and shut off. I didn't have tools with me so the best I did was to dry the intake and unplug ignition wires and let dry. After a couple of hours I turned the Truck on and drove straight home(20 miles). Once home, I removed the spark plugs and left the vehicle dry overnight(90+ degrees in Cali). Next morning I cranked it til dry (didn't notice any water spill out) and changed the oil 5w-30. Truck turned right on but after warming 20+ minutes the truck develops a suttle tick from underneath. It does not increase under load and it's more noticeable at idle. Sounds like a bearing to me, but is so light that I feel I might have lucked out and I can get away without having to do any major work. Just looking for advise and thoughts. Thanks. 3VZE with 194k driven about 80 miles since event with no misfires or overheating.

 

Well just how bad did the oil look when you drained it??

 

Oil didn't look too bad, but there was definitely water in there because my oil cap was pretty milky. The oil cap has remained clean after changing the oil and after about 2.5 hours of driving since. I was thinking of going to 10w40 to help ease the noise. Just really crossing my fingers. Was getting ready for 33's and a chop top.

 

My guess is you hydrolocked and bent a rod. You can't tell how bad it is w/o a complete teardown, so if it were mine I'd just drive it carefully. If bad enough, that rod will break some day.

 

if it were me and you sispeect a worn journal bearing i would go to a thicker viscosity oil. my old 3vz had a light knock/tick from down low. went away after 15w40 oil change. rotella is good stuff for our old motors

 

Any thoughts on stp oil treatment? I was thinking 10w40 with a bit of stp, but the 15w40 rotella seems like a good way to go. Thanks

 

I run 20/50 in these engines with no issues