Why does over-filling with oil damage an engine?

[zcacogp]

Chaps,

I serviced the Golf on Saturday. And put in about a litre too much oil. Took it for a quick round-the-block test run (~3 miles) and realised it smelled of hot oil, got home, drained out the offending surplus and all was well.

So, two questions. One: What is the problem with putting in too much oil? I can see that having the bottom of the crank throws dragging through the stuff is not good. But is there potential for damage as well?

Secondly, am I likely to have done a nasty to my beloved Golf by driving about 3 (brisk) miles with about a litre too much oil in it? (I suspect not.)


Oli.

[zcacogp]

I presume you did this twice, Mr Hopkins? Was the first test not conclusive enough for you?

How much thrashing resulted in the damage? (I saw no clouds of smoke, just a smell of hot oil, so I think I am OK.)

And did you bother to replace the rings?


Oli.