I've got a 1989 SBC with a one cylinder fouling the plug and using oil but does not smoke. The engine has been rebuilt and runs great, don't know how many miles are on it. It takes 800-1000 miles for the plug to foul and it uses at least a quart every 2000-3000 miles.
Is there a chance it's the valve stem seal(s)?
The parts stores list both the o-ring type and umbrella style. If it is the umbrella type should it have failed so soon? I know the old style o-ring seals are crap but the umbrella type work great.
GM started using positive seals on the Vortec heads. Mostly for emissions benefit. Older heads need some lube on the exhaust. The intake seals will determine oil use the most tho. Vacuum on intake side, pressure on exhaust, most of the time.
Check for excessive valve/guide clearence when you change seal. Just try to wiggle valve sideways with no spring load/pressure on it. Should be no movement on a lubed stem.
It could also be a bad match between the intake manifold and the cylinder head, preventing a good seal at the gasket and allowing oily vapors from the crankcase to be pulled up into the cylinder through the gap.
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