1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Need some advice

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Old 08-28-10, 03:01 PM
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Once a Marine.....
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Need some advice

My car has had a pretty severe oil leak since I got it about a year ago (drips about 1/4 cup of oil everyday)..... when I look under the car the entire drivers side is covered with oil.... is this the "beehive oil leak" or the "dowel pin leak"? I really can't see where the oil is coming from, I just know it's on the drivers side near the firewall part of the engine.
I'm sick of the oil spill in my driveway.....how hard is this to fix (I know the dowel pin means a rebuild....which I will put off).

Thanks
Old 08-28-10, 03:22 PM
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A dowel pin leak is at the top front of the engine. You will notice some puddling on the front housing near where you see the '12A' casting. Leaks top rear are from failing o-rings under the beehive.You might check the crank case venting while you're looking too.
Old 08-28-10, 09:23 PM
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i suggest you clean off the top rear of the engine, start it up and look for drips. chances are its the beehive, but its pretty simple to make sure.
Old 08-29-10, 01:15 AM
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I don't think a dowel leak can flow that much oil. A quarter cup a day!? Dude!

Replace the orings in the beehive, then replace every rubber hose below it because those will be trashed too. Do it now, before you blow a coolant line and lose your motor.








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Old 08-29-10, 07:47 AM
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Thanks for the responses.

I got the car up on jackstands....changing springs & struts. So I've got a good look. The entire underside of the beehive is clean! The first place I can see oil leaking is were the metal tube (from the beehive) goes into the block,,,,but that's just a tiny spot of oil. Looks as if the oil pan is the main culprit. Is this a tough fix....?

Thanks
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