Oil under thermo housing and front of motor???

[00prowler]

Hi All, I have just noticed oil on the front of my motor esp. on drivers side, and under the thermostat housing on my 96 GTS. Any guesses on what might be causing this.. Thanks...00PROWLER...

 

[GTS Dean]

I think it's the front timing cover gasket. Mine's had the same problem. Gasket replaced once, but started again. Scheduled for another, more leisurely and deliberate install attempt. Mine is so bad it has the entire bottom of the car covered with Mobil1 (again.)

 

[Chuck 98 RT/10]

I have the same problem as Dean. Oil all over the bottom. Macedo Motorsports has it now. Larry is going to run dye through it to find out exactly where it's leaking.

 

[Viper Wizard]

It may be the Timing Chain Cover but it is a little unusual to see oil on top from T/cover. Check your Valve Covers. I think you'll find the PCV Harness at fault [the hose that goes from VC to VC and to the air box]. I found that harness to be the most common oil leak on 96/97. I kept them in stock because I use at least one a week! If you want, give me a call, maybe I can help?

 

[GTS Dean]

Chuck,

I've got the updated convoluted tube breathers. The valve cover, timing cover, cam position sensor, oil pan and rear main seals, along with PS pump and A/C compressor have all been replaced under service contract. PCV is new and the average clyinder pressure is 175psi (hot).

This is getting to be extremely frustrating.

 

[HP]

Chuck,

I've got the updated convoluted tube breathers. The valve cover, timing cover, cam position sensor, oil pan and rear main seals, along with PS pump and A/C compressor have all been replaced under service contract. PCV is new and the average clyinder pressure is 175psi (hot).

This is getting to be extremely frustrating.

Dean, your oil problem has been around as long as I can remember.
Plumb a vacuum/pressure dial hose to your dip-stick tube and monitor your
crankcase pressure at driving conditions. Even with good cylinder pressure,
there has to be more to your story than just bad gaskets - if your crankcase
pressure is too high, you'll never stop the oil.

 

[Qualitywires.com]

I had the same problem. The timing cover was leaking. appearently the cover is somewhat porus. Replcaed gasket and leak is gone. It would only leak when the car was moving....not while idling.

 

[GTS Dean]

Hugh,

I've often wondered about blow-by. I wish someone would take the time to explain to me how to conduct a leak-down test. I can put together equipment required out in the warehouse in about 10 minutes. It can't be that difficult.

 

[old96er]

There is some leakdown test info here:
http://www.carcraft.com/techarticles/53599/index.html

Best $10 mag subscription I ever had.

 

[GTS Dean]

Thanks very much for the helpful link!