track day aftermath
 

I just returned from a two-day drivers ed session with my 1979 SC (148k miles). The car ran very well, tempatures were normal, and I used only a half quart of oil during the two days. When I returned home I noticed a serious oil leak and found that the car was down three quarts. The leak seems to be up near the transaxle but it is hard to see exactly where it is coming from and it only leaks when the engine is running. I won't be able to get under the car until next weekend but would sure appreciate any ideas on what might be the cause or if anyone has experienced similar problems. Thanks very much.

Robb Parish
1979 SC

Get under there w/ the engine running and see if it's coming out of the trans bell housing. If so it's probably the flywheel seal which requires an engine drop.

Welcome to the board!

First try and see if the oil is coming from the thermostat area on top of the engine. It's hard to see because the CIS stuff is in the way. The flywheel seal is another possibility.

cheers,
Ingo

Could also be the oil pressure switch on top of the motor, or the engine breather hose connection.

Thanks everyone for the input. Looks like I'll be spending some quality time under the car this weekend. I really appreciate your help.

Robb

You may need a third elbow, but if you can reach behind the all the cis and fuel stuff you might be able to eliminate at least the flywheel seal. All the other possibilites mentioned are in that forbidden/hidden area behind the motor.

Hah! If you can say that under a running engine is any kind of quality time. You will be very careful. That's an order. I would suggest multiple ( min of 4) stands AND leave the jack under there somewhere with a little lift pressure as added insurance.