Another oil leak search

[ecm911]

Search for the source of an oil leak.
It was wet on case above the oil return tubes along head/cam towers on both sides, more on the drivers side although. Not dripping but it is wet.

What I have done.

Pull valve covers on drivers side -
Head studs are tight
Rocker armrs snug, but they do appear to be wet exp # 3,
? the 5 mm bolt is tight but the rocker arms themselve do wiggle ever so slightly. Is this normal?

Both Valve covers appear to be leaking near the front of engine, again does not appear that bad.

Cleaned up as best as I could.

Next, I am going to replace the oil return tubes ( they are org), but I don't have a snap ring plier big enough. But I am questioning if it is the oil return tubes, becuse the oil on the case is above the tubes.
Once I get the right tool I will replace and then run it and see if I can see more.

also, replace the thermstat gasjets, etc about 2 years ago. Tried to check behind the CIS... it appears dry, but realy cannot see anything back there.

Thanks
Earl

[rusnak]

You have to degrease the engine with a good cleaner like Purple Power, Castrol Super Clean, etc. If you use a power washer you will get the best results, but be VERY careful not to get water into sensitive areas like air intakes or electrical boxes. Also adjust the pressure down so as to not remove paint.

Once you've had a chance to run the engine, fresh leaks will show up better and you'll know how fast the leaks are and if they're a problem. Also check the oil level and make sure you didn't overfill. Some leaks actually go away with engine mileage, especially after the car has been sitting for a while.

[ecm911]

rusnak thanks for the repy.

I keep my engine very clean.

Oil level is fine and I haven't been lucky to get any of those oil leaks that go away. Not yet anyway.

I was just looking at replacemen oil return tubes. My snap ring pliers will not open the circlip enough to get it on the tube. Have you every replace them.
Looks like I have to get a better set of these pliers to do this right.

Earl

[rusnak]

I had a harder time getting them to seat properly and then extended enough to even get the snap ring on. I think the bigger issue is to get the o-rings in there properly.

There are a number of expandable return tube kits out there. The only one that worked for me was the Porsche factory kit. I think it has green o-rings. If you want, I can see if I can take a picture of it installed on my car.

[ecm911]

Thanks for the offer of the pic, but not necessary. I have heard of that and was ready for the PIA .

I have a factory kit- will at least they are green o-rings.

I have to get a better snap ring tool, my cheao $4 harbour freight one just does cut it.

[rusnak]

There is a Craftsman one that you can get at either Sears or OSH. It is reversible. It's also made of good quality steel. I also had to use a good assortment of prybars, as I recall.