a test for oil leaks?

[billpatterson]

Hi
I think I know the answer to this. However the replies will be insightful and enjoyable. Besides I enjoy asking what may be called by some stupid questions; what did so and so say referring to this!?

After replacing all seals and gaskets, is there a safe way to test for oil leaks before engine install, full connection, and run up?

Regards,
Bill


Last grimy job,

Assembled with Hylomar Blue,

 

[Wes]

Can you use a smoke machine?
Used it on the fuel lines and brakes for the CSL. Worked a treat.

 

[stphers]

I guess you could hook up a starter with a mechanical gauge on it, fill it with oil and spin it over and get some oil pressure and see what happens Make sure the dist is in to stop oil from coming out. BUT, unless it is a major oil leak, small ones don't usually show up for awhile. you might get lucky ( or unlucky )and see something You also have to take into consideration that the engine has to go thru hot and cold cycles to see what may happen

Thanks, Rick

 

[Stevehose]

If you've properly installed and Hylomar'd the duck gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear crank seals, upper and lower timing chain covers (with a dab in the corners per the manual) you should be good to go

 

[billpatterson]

If you've properly installed and Hylomar'd the duck gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear crank seals, upper and lower timing chain covers (with a dab in the corners per the manual) you should be good to go

All the above, Stevehose! I may have used a bit too much as it squeezed out. I probably use too much toothpaste too. Though there's a lil comfort in seeing the excess squeeze out

Regards,
Bill

 

[Stevehose]

It can be cleaned up with acetone and a rag

All the above, Stevehose! I may have used a bit too much as it squeezed out. I probably use too much toothpaste too. Though there's a lil comfort in seeing the excess squeeze out

Regards,
Bill

 

[Mike Goble]

I have a vacuum pump I use to test the sealing of my crankcases. Seal up the crankcase with the filter in place, block the distributor hole and the valve cover vent. Draw a vacuum on the crankcase and use a short length of hose to listen for leaks. If you find a leak, usually in the corners of the gasket, just add some sealant and the vacuum will suck it right in .

 

[stphers]

Be careful with using too much, usually what you see coming out in the outside is less than what is being squeezed out on the inside just waiting to get into the oil passages

Thanks, Rick