Lingering fuel smell in oil

67Dart273 said
I notice you said "fairly short trips." I can't imagine trips being terribly short in San Diego (was 1977 last time I was there!!!) and this time of year, but short trips will certainly make this problem worse.

Good point; the Valiant is just a 'putt-ing around' car, though (for now). Occasionally take it a mile or two down the road to work, etc. Thus the short trips. Slowly working on her and hope to have her 'roadtrip' worthy at some point.

67Dart273 said
Also make sure the choke isn't too rich. Of course you've looked at the plugs

Haven't looked at the choke in a while but will put that on my list. Same with the plugs (although when I replaced them about 100 miles ago everything looked good).

67Dart273 said
How is the engine condition? leakdown? compression?

Good question. Haven't done either yet. Also on my list. Although she feels to have plenty of 'pep'. Valve adjustment done in the last 100 miles.