Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method

Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method

NOTE: When diagnosing engine oil leaks, the source and location of the leak must be positively identified prior to service.

1. Clean the engine with a suitable solvent to remove all traces of oil.
2. Drain the engine oil crankcase and refill with recommended oil, premixed with engine oil dye. Use a minimum 14.8 ml (0.5 ounce) to a maximum 29.6 ml (1 ounce) of fluorescent additive to all engines. If the oil is not premixed, the fluorescent additive must be added to the crankcase before the oil.
3. Run the engine for 15 minutes. Stop the engine and inspect all seal and gasket areas for leaks. A clear bright yellow or orange area will identify a leak. For extremely small leaks, several hours may be required for the leak to appear.
4. Inspect oil gallery plugs to locate leaks due to improperly sealed, loose or cocked plugs. If oil leaks appear from the flywheel attaching bolts, apply sealant to the threads and tighten to 73-87 Nm {7.5-8.8 kgf.m, 54-64 ft.lbf}.
5. Repair all leaks as required.

Leakage Points - Underhood

Examine the following areas for oil leakage:
- valve cover gasket.
- intake manifold gasket.
- cylinder head gasket.
- oil filters.
- engine block plug at end of oil passages.

Leakage Points - Under Engine, With Vehicle on Hoist

Examine the following areas for oil leakage:
- oil pan gasket.
- crankshaft front oil seal.
- crankshaft rear oil seal.
- oil pressure switch.

Leakage Points - With Transmission and Flywheel Removed

NOTE:
- Inspect for leakage in the area around the crankshaft rear oil seal and flywheel bolts. If the leakage is from the flywheel bolts, apply sealant to the threads and tighten to 73-87 N.m {7.5-8.8 kgf.m, 54-64 ft.lbf}.
- Light leakage equally around valve cover bolts and crankshaft seals is not detrimental, no repairs are required.

Check the following for oil leaks:
- crankshaft front oil seal.
- crankshaft rear oil seal.
- crankshaft rear oil seal retainer gasket.
- oil pan gasket.
- flywheel bolts.
- oil gallery plugs at the end of oil passages.
- all cast parts for leakage due to porosity.