Oil Leak?

[stevlor]

Hi all,

I've just got back from a trip to Spain with my bongo. It did very well, the oil light came on while I was out there, put 1 litre in and now one month later the light is back on and the level is low, similar thing had happened just before going away (2.5 months ago) but at it's MOT there were no advisories. Can't see any obvious leak - do you have any suggestions as to where to look specifically? I was going to do my first oil change as have done quite a few miles now since buying her, but thought it best to sort this leak beforehand - is that right?

[cmm303]

Which engine?

The under tray catches most dribbles so you are unlikely to spot oil on the road when parked, unless it is very bad.
Diesels commonly develop a leak between the cam cover and head. Quite cheaply fixed by replacing the gasket and fixings.

I'd check the dipstick very regularly rather than wait for the oil light to come on before topping up.

[mikeonb4c]

How many miles is it doing between needing top ups? Is it being driven hard (e.g. regularly more than 3000rpm if a diesel)? Is it being driven in exceptionally hot conditions?

Interesting thought that the diesel is supposed to have oil changes anyway every 5k miles which dilutes the cost hit if its burning oil.

[stevlor]

Diesel engine, probably done over 1000 miles since I topped it up with 1 litre, but no temperatures above 18 Celsius and hardly ever over 3000rpm.

Is there a way of finding out where the leak is?

[mikeonb4c]

Diesel engine, probably done over 1000 miles since I topped it up with 1 litre, but no temperatures above 18 Celsius and hardly ever over 3000rpm.

Is there a way of finding out where the leak is?

Assuming it is a leak (which it might not be) you could try getting a sheet of clean paper and fitting it inside the engine undercover to see if it wets up with oil drips (and where it wets up if so). Also, clean up around the rocker gasket and see if the mess starts to appear again. Its a process of elimination I fear. Also, check around the oil filter to make sure it is on tight enough to seal and prevent dripping (it has been known for this to be a cause before now, though it is rare, and usually its a very noticeable leak and maybe caused by a faulty oil seal if so).

Is the engine at all smoky from the exhaust? What colour if so.

Good luck, keep us posted.

[rita]

The engine definitely has a leak, is it internal or external that is the Question.

Good Luck.

[Diplomat]

Worth checking that the filter is done up tight.

there can be quite a bit of shaking and knocking at cold tick over. mine came loose and the first knew was the light coming on and back on again soon after topping up.


Frank