ibz2004

Hello

Just discovered a couple of drops of oil on the drive. Lifted the hood, checked oil level which seems ok. No sign of any leakage/spillage on the engine (at first glance anyway). Theres no burning smell when i drive either. Should i therefore assume its a very minor problem?

Now remember im a complete novice so id be very grateful if you can respond to my simple questions! If it was a blown/damaged head gasket wouldnt there be large amounts of smoke and oil? What is the purpose of the head gasket and "rocker" gasket?

i have had a look under the car but it seems to be covered by some kind of safety plate. Will take it to garage first thing but figured id ask for some advice first. thankyou

ibz2004

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webby v7 slipperwagon

iTrader: (2)

If you can see the rear of the sump and it is wet around there, then it is the rear crank oil seal, which by what your saying is pretty much a common sign of it. It is a gearbox out job, but not an expensive fix, but don't leave it too long because it can contaminate the clutch plate. But it won't cause any other kind of damage.

ibz2004

is the "rear of the sump" directly under the car? i have checked under it and havent yet discovered where the leak is coming. Will look for it in the daylight..

webby v7 slipperwagon

iTrader: (2)

Yes under the car, and it is a black metal square'ish shape, with a bolt (sump plug) in the side of it, if you put your hand up at the back of it you will feel the oil around there.

mart360

my moneys on the front crank oil seal!!


fills the cam cover with oil, and drips stealthily down, then ends up hitting the headers as you blast along, giving everyone the impression that your burning oil

good news its a £5 part


bad news replacement is approx £80 at a good independant

Mart

ibz2004

thanks for the advice. I take it somethin like this could have occurred if i went over a bump a little too quickly?

webby v7 slipperwagon

iTrader: (2)

He said there is no burning oil smell,and 01/02 are notorius for the rear c/seal going at any mileage. And no going over a bump at any speed won't cause it, it is a faulty part, the rubber in the seal is inferior and shrinks, causing oil seapage.