Seeping Oil Pan Leak
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 12,706
Likes: 329
From: Scottsdale Arizona
Seeping Oil Pan Leak
I noticed on the weekend that I have a slow oil pan leak on my new 400 SB. The oil is colecting on the lower part of the front, center of the oil pan seal. It is slow enough that I can't see where it is coming from. Approximately two to three drops overnight.
While not enough to cause a problem, I really don't want nor expect a leak from a new engine. I also don't expect that it will get better with time. Since the engine is still out, I figured that I should fix it before installing.
Assuming that I drain the pan well, Is there any reason that I shouldn't be able to turn the engine over on the engine stand? I would much rather reinstall the seal "right side up." Will oil leak out of anything other than the oil pressure sender? Will any seep into the cylinders?
Also, the gasket that I used was one of the Felpro blue, 1 piece ones. Per the instructions, I installed it without sealant. Should I put a dab in each "corner?" Anyone else have the same issue with these? It is a small main seal pan.
While not enough to cause a problem, I really don't want nor expect a leak from a new engine. I also don't expect that it will get better with time. Since the engine is still out, I figured that I should fix it before installing.
Assuming that I drain the pan well, Is there any reason that I shouldn't be able to turn the engine over on the engine stand? I would much rather reinstall the seal "right side up." Will oil leak out of anything other than the oil pressure sender? Will any seep into the cylinders?
Also, the gasket that I used was one of the Felpro blue, 1 piece ones. Per the instructions, I installed it without sealant. Should I put a dab in each "corner?" Anyone else have the same issue with these? It is a small main seal pan.
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 23,831
Likes: 10
From: Springfield MO
St. Jude Donor '07
I think I've seen a fluorescent dye you can add to oil to trace leaks. Dump it in and check it often - that should point to the source of the problem. Other than that, I haven't ever met a GM engine that didn't leak something. They like to mark their territory.
Last edited by I'm Batman; Jul 2, 2007 at 01:39 PM.
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 12,706
Likes: 329
From: Scottsdale Arizona
