Oil leak ?

[HOTSIX]

I got a leak. Strange thing is - I cant find the source.
No Joke. I spent the better part of yesterday under the car.

Just had the rear main changed out for a neoprene one - 'cause I think it was leaking there a 'lil - at least I hope so after changing it. Plus I changed the pan gasket too. Still have a leak. Not a big one - but just enough to leave a couple spots of fresh oil on my shop floor each time I drive it.

I found after degreasing the rear of the engine / intake and the top bell housing of the tranny the oil is coming from the oddest spot. It seems to leak from just above the starter heat shield (pass side) but below the head. NO oil on the headers and none leaking from the valve cover gasket.

I checked the oil feed and return lines (behind turbo into the intake) and both are still clean and dry after my degreasing job.
I also checked the front of the engine - front cover, oil pressure switch etc - all dry.

BIZARRE ???? I think so.

Has anyone experienced this type problem ? I have no idea where / why the oil would leak from that area. As luck would have it - you can barely see up into that spot. Is there something I am missing ? Is there even access to the interior of the block from here ?

 

[mybuick]

there are 3 plugs on the back of the block and a freeze plug where the cam is. it sounds like it is leaking from one of these. you will have to pull the trans and remove the flexplate to find out.

 

[Jerryl]

When clean oil leaks, it will flow across parts but you will not be able to track it down. Just ask me how I know. I am sure you verified these thoroughly but just thinking out loud.

· Make sure the oil return line is seated correctly in the grommet. It may leak clean oil form there, be blown back, and you may never know.
· Look again at the intake manifold seal in the back at the Lifter valley. Is the seal still in tact and not leaking?
· Re-check the valve covers. Could leak from the back and blown towards the back keeping the headers clean?
· Highly unlikely but “Cracked block” in the back by the lifter valley?