finding oil leak..

[99rtguy]

anyone know a way to check to see where oil is coming from without running the engine? i have the timing cover off looking for a leak there, but ive cleaned it all off. im not too crazy about running with the timing cover off and without the altenator running, but is it my only option?

 

[cyclonekid77]

When I was trying to find my leak, I just put the pulleys and alt. belt back on without the cover quick so I could start it up.

 

[ClipseAPG]

Just clear everything out of the way so no wiring or tubing falls into the timing belt's path but other than that, you need the oil passages pressurized (by running the car) cause if not, it'll take a while for you to spot the leak, especially if it's not a huge leak.

 

[tljohnson1]

Throw your belts back on so u can start the car for a minute or so. Once the oil has pressure you will ba able to see your leak. Just monitor where you are holding your light and dont stick it into the timing belt by accident.

 

[jjrock5]

If its going to be running for a while Id put the water pump belt back on so it doesnt overheat.

 

[TALONTRAX]

Clean the engine thoroughly (with de-greaser or gunk), & assemble enough so that it will run. Go to a local parts supplier & get an ultra-violet tracer dye/leak detector kit. Follow the instructions in the kit, add the tracer dye to the oil & run it for a while - enough so that the leak will start & leak so that the dye in the oil will be visible when you shine the u/v light on it . . .

I have had good results in pin-pointing tricky oil & coolant leaks using these kits . . .

 

[LiquidX]

You may need to drive the car too to find some leaks. I had my oil cap leaking like hell only when I was driving. Had an exhaust stud leak when given gas but not idling. I haven't used the UV kit but that is something that always comes up with hidden leaks.

 

[99rtguy]

found it guys. crank seal is leaking. i tried searching, but is there a how to on doing a timing belt without balance shafts?

 

[lacroixdp]

Timing Belt VFAQ (Timing Belt TSB - ENHANCED)

 

[99rtguy]

post does help, but ive got a question. my balance shafts are gone, and every post ive searched said, just line up the marks. that means just on the crank, and cam shafts right? definitely dont wanna screw up this motor.

 

[knochgoon24]

You don't need to worry about getting the oil pump sprocket in time if there isn't a balance shaft attached to it. Just get the crank and the cams lined up.

Also, make sure you get the proper tension. You'll kick yourself if you belt goes slack 20 miles down the road.

 

[95fwdtsi18psi]

Get some UV dye and a black light. We use it here in the shop, works great.