Bob, Water condensation inside the oil filler
cap on most engines is normal for a motor that is used for short periods. A Marine motor would take probably 45 min. to 1 hour of running time, under load, to heat-up enough to dry out the water and moisture that is always present. All equipment that has large mass and is subject to wide tempreture ranges will condense moisture as it cools after running. Now, the important part. If the oil dip stick has a chocolate milk colored oil mixture present, then this is a major problem. This indicates water in the crankcase oil usually from a blown head gasket or broken head. Oil that shows up in the cooling water system or radiator, as in freshwater cooled motors in saltwater boats, also indicates a major engine problem as before. Water and oil that has been pushed out of the engine and remains seperate on the floor, without the chocolate mike color, is totally different. It means you have a source of oil leakage and a seperate source of water leakage. Both these leaks could be minor in expense to repair. The fact that the engine cranked and would not start very possibably has nothing to do with the oil/water problem. Or, it also could be the result of the oil/water problem. Don't let the starting problem interfere or dictate the approach in your search for the oil/water problem. The oil /water is the major problem. Let me know if I can help further as you work on the problem and eliminate different elements or causes. Good luck and I hope your solution is not costly, I'd rather that it is just a learning event. Ray S/V Speedy
