Oil Leak

[SteveGT1]

Guys I have my intake done again last week (this is the 3rd set of gaskets on my 01!!!) and my car is still leaking oil. Its not coming from the intake area, it is very small but the puddle accumlates around the base pan. has anyone had a similar problem?

[Licit]

I did notice some trails that ran down the block to the oil pan when I was changing my oil last time. I tend to come up low when I change my oil, but as of yet I've never seen where the leak is coming from. I meant to use a scrape pad on the areas where I see it to find out if it is a recent leak or not.

[SteveGT1]

I think I might purchase some Dye and put it in my oil system and go from there...

[2000GA]

Is your oil filter tight?

[SteveGT1]

Yep

[99capergrandam]

I noticed the same thing last week when I was changing my oil. Very small amount of oil on the pan and it appears that it is coming from my front seal...major operation to replace and BIG BUCKS!

I also noticed today while cleaning the engine compartment that there was a line of oil on the engine hood insulation that matches exactly with the serpentine belt. The oil is getting onto the belt and being spayed onto the insulation in very small amounts pretty much comfirming that it is the front seal.

Has anyone else checked to see if there is oil spray on their hood insulation? Also, how many of you use synthetic oil? I've heard that on higher milage cars that synthetic oil can cause oil seals to leak. I'll check the net and see if I can find more info on this and post results tomorrow.

[Licit]

I hadn't heard about full synthetic causing leaks in the oil seals. Actually it was highly recommended to switch over around 50,000 miles to full synthetic by my mechanic. From most of the reasons he named for switching to it would seem to be the opposite situation where it should prevent leaks in the oil seals. Please reply if you find further info.

[99capergrandam]

Here's what I was able to find.....

http://www.guarding-our-earth.com/amsoil/seals.shtml

[Licit]

Well from the article it seems that I will probably use Restore engine lube/compression restorer with each oil change. That has several additives in it to help gaskets soften and swell up and fill any areas that may be leaking. Hopefully that might help prevent the off chance that the synthetic led to a small leak.