Wednesday, December 16, 2009

What are some possible causes/solutions to an oil leak?

I have a 1989 volvo 240 DL that recently (within the last week) started leaking engine oil. I haven't found the exact source yet, but it's definitely engine oil, and I was just looking for some possible causes for this. I'm overdue on an oil/filter/lube job.





Any insight into solutions and cost of repair would great, and any additional information you need can be provided.





Thanks!What are some possible causes/solutions to an oil leak?
Usually, it's the valve cover that merely needs tightening. Oil can leak from oil sender unit and from front and rear engine seals, or from oil pan gasket. The oil pan gasket can be re-tightened as well. Also, you have a gizmo on the engine called an oil trap that should be replaced over time. It can cause a build-up of oil pressure internally if not changed. Also, you should only be using Mobil One or ELF oil synthetics in this car. Anything else will leave major sludge behind. The internals get a waxy brown coating that holds heat in and causes fuel mileage. Mobil One will wash the goo out of your seals with time.Pennzoil Platinum would also be good to use first, then the other later. Also, install a set of Bosch Platinum or Fusion (iridium) plugs to improve power and fuel mileage. Good Luck!What are some possible causes/solutions to an oil leak?
There are a few things that i could think of off the top of my head that you yourself may want to check and these are fairly easy fixes the first thing I would check is the oil filter itself and make sure that where the gasket is isn't leaking. the next thing to check would be the oil pan so this requires getting under the car check both the bottom of the oil pan and also where it attaches to the bottom of the motor. If it is leaking from where it attaches to the motor the oil pan gasket is no good and you can get a replacement at an autoparts store such as autozone for less than $25. If it is leaking from the bottom of the oil pan the part is more expensive and you will probably need to go through a dealership and order it but if you need to change out the oil pan you should change the gasket at the same time. also depending on if the gasket is rubber or made out of cork you will need to get some gasket schlak or similar for the rubber one. if you can't find the leak in either of these places you may want to bring it to a mechanic because it is probably something more difficult to replace. also if you need guidance in replacing something autoparts stores carry haynes manuals for most cars for about $20. hope this helps you out good luck
Here are the common points to check:





- engine pan oil plug


- engine pan gasket


- front crankshaft seal located behind the harmonic balancer (rear seal as well)


- valve cover gasket


- oil cooler lines/connections (should be visible upfront under the car)





And, of course, you should check your oil filter as well to make sure it is not leaking. Diesel engines do not like to be overdue for oil change.
go to wal mart get 2 bottles of cheap super tech brake cleaner wash off old oil on block or whereever there is old oil see if you can trace where the leak is coming from start at the top because a valve cover gasket can make a rear main sael look like it;s leaking if you don't look from the top first if you can't find the leak then go to any parts store buy some florescent dye put it in the oil after you change it and get a blacklight and it should shine bright green whereever it;s leaking from
well,all old cars have problems.for old cars,this is very common.it also depends on the climate u'r car is staying in.for eg.if its cold outside %26amp; turn on the car,the engine oil will get red hot while the pipes caring the oil is cold...





1 good solution is 2 get another car,cause once 1 problem starts,another 1 will begin.
When you have the oil and filter service, have the technician try and pinpoint the source of the leak while he has it on the lift. It may be as simple as tightening some bolts or it may be a failed gasket.

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