Oil Leak on New crate motor - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Hawker7 · 10-22-2009, 07:24 PM

I have a new GM 350 crate motor with around 120 miles on it that has developed an oil leak. I can't seem to find where it is coming from but it drips from both starter bolts. It seems to be getting worse and now leaves a 2 inch circle of oil on the garage floor after parking it. I looked around underneath and up top but everything looks clean and good. Anyone else have a leak like this?

big_al_71 · 10-22-2009, 07:26 PM

check the valve cover on the passenger side....

oldblue1968chevy · 10-22-2009, 07:39 PM

why so specific big al? (JW)

akpackfan · 10-22-2009, 07:41 PM

I just had the same problem with the truck I just bought with a 350 crate motor in it and it ended up being the hole just above the starter solenoid that was intended to be used for a dipstick tube didn't have anything in it. No tube or plug so it was open to the oil pan and any time the engine was running oil would splash out in fine dropplets. I had to look between the header tubes, just to the rear and above the starter solenoid to see it. Might want to check it out. Symptoms were oil burning off the header tubes and a good puddle of oil on the ground, running off the bottom of the starter.

68gmsee · 10-22-2009, 07:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldblue1968chevy

why so specific big al? (JW)

Could be cause that's where it's leaking?

Some times oil migrates so be sure and also check the intake manifold gasket and/or bolt for tightness. I had an engine that leaked in the back seal and migrated on down. I thought it was rear main seal.

Wash the engine off real good, run it, wait till it cools off to the touch and then use a white cloth and wipe around the back sides, etc. You will find it.

Richard H. · 10-22-2009, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by akpackfan

I just had the same problem with the truck I just bought with a 350 crate motor in it and it ended up being the hole just above the starter solenoid that was intended to be used for a dipstick tube didn't have anything in it. No tube or plug so it was open to the oil pan and any time the engine was running oil would splash out in fine dropplets. I had to look between the header tubes, just to the rear and above the starter solenoid to see it. Might want to check it out. Symptoms were oil burning off the header tubes and a good puddle of oil on the ground, running off the bottom of the starter.

That was gonna be my suggestion.

cparman · 10-22-2009, 08:30 PM

two good suggestions here. Big Al is working on the theory of gravity I LIKE IT. A PACK is working on experience. What side is the oil dipstick on? I read where the 290 hp crate comes with either left or right dipstick provision, this would support A PACK. Might suggest letting the engine get cool, and run your finger around the rear of the right hand valve cover to see if it is wet with oil. If it is dry, look to see if the R.H. dipstick hole is open.

I just installed a 330 hp crate in my Blazer, and I too had an oil leak. It was the timing cover seal. After I got over being PO'd, looked carefully, and made sure that it was in fact the seal. Pulled the balancer, and looked again, to find the darn seal was leaking from around the outside of the seal. I just knew I cut the seal when I installed the balancer. I did use a install tool for the balancer, but just KNEW it had to be my fault.

Hawker7 · 10-22-2009, 08:50 PM

I just checked and it looks like both valve covers are leaking in the back..I bought these rubber gaskets from summit:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/FEL-VS12869T/#

They are the rubber ones and if I recall they wanted them torqued down pretty good. Any idea how tight they really should be?

cparman · 10-22-2009, 09:01 PM

is it a center bolt style VC? I used Felpro gaskets on mine, and had to stretch them a bit by hand to get them to relax enough to get in place. I did install them dry, no sealers

big_al_71 · 10-22-2009, 09:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldblue1968chevy

why so specific big al? (JW)

based on the oil being around the starter bolts, I have been bitten by that dog before....I just read you cjecked and there was a leak out of the back of your valve covers.. I always use fel-pro gaskets on all my engine builts....

big_al_71 · 10-22-2009, 09:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hawker7

I just checked and it looks like both valve covers are leaking in the back..I bought these rubber gaskets from summit:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/FEL-VS12869T/#

They are the rubber ones and if I recall they wanted them torqued down pretty good. Any idea how tight they really should be?

I cant remember off the top of my head but they should not be too tight as it will damage the gaskets and cause them to leak I always go by feel....

hayhauler71 · 10-22-2009, 09:19 PM

45 inch pounds

hayhauler71 · 10-22-2009, 09:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by big_al_71

I cant remember off the top of my head but they should not be too tight as it will damage the gaskets and cause them to leak I always go by feel....

45 inch pounds

mclairmo · 10-23-2009, 01:28 AM

Also make sure your valve cover rails are not bent where the bolts go through if using stamped steel covers. I switched to cast aluminum valve covers to give me a better, thicker and more rigid sealing surface so I can torque them down more than factory specs.

Chris H · 10-23-2009, 09:31 AM

Dont forget to look at the distributor gasket... I learned this one the hard way!
It is just a paper type gasket that seals the distributor body to the intake manifold.

cdowns · 10-23-2009, 09:54 AM

check oilpan gasket// especially if you didnt use a one piece premium one//dont overlook the drainplug either

68gmsee · 10-23-2009, 10:07 AM

Re: valve covers.. After 40 yrs more than likely they have been torqued and retorqued a few times. I always lay the cover on a flat surface to insure they are completely straight. I use a section of flat iron that fits in the outer ridge and tap any high/low points with a body hammer or similar.

I also like Felpro gaskets. I don't like the rubber types even though I have used them before. I guess it's a preference but I've had better luck with Felpro cork/rubber combo. I torque by feel when I see just a slight expanding of the gasket under the bolt I stop.

I use a small amount of gasket goo on the valve cover and I replace them as soon as I notice oil seeping out from them -usually 3-5 yrs depending on engine and usage. Most of the time when that happens it's time to replace.

Malibudraft · 06-03-2010, 10:08 PM

My GM 350 Crate is doing the exact same thing. Gonna check all of these ideas. Thanks for the tips!

*67/72junkie* · 06-04-2010, 12:16 AM

I use only felpro cork gaskets on my valve covers.I use 3m weather strip adhesive and glue the gaskets to the valve covers first. After they dry sitting on a flat surface I run a very thin bead of blue permatex on the engine side and rub out flat before installing.As long as you do not over tighten and pinch the gasket you can remove and it will pop right off without breaking to adjust valves etc.lightly rub off permatex and run new bead and reinstall.keeps a good seal and makes the gasket reusable.Most valve covers leak due to over tightening or cheap chrome covers .

**El Jay** · 06-04-2010, 01:17 AM

The first time I replace valve cover gaskets I throw away the bolts (not on center bolts valve covers), and put studs in the heads.
Then I put the new gaskets over the studs, to hold them (the gaskets) in place, and then install the valve covers.

Shyguy · 06-04-2010, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67/72junkie

I use only felpro cork gaskets on my valve covers.I use 3m weather strip adhesive and glue the gaskets to the valve covers first. After they dry sitting on a flat surface I run a very thin bead of blue permatex on the engine side and rub out flat before installing.As long as you do not over tighten and pinch the gasket you can remove and it will pop right off without breaking to adjust valves etc.lightly rub off permatex and run new bead and reinstall.keeps a good seal and makes the gasket reusable.Most valve covers leak due to over tightening or cheap chrome covers .

I agree, the way I have always done it.

Danny

Shyguy · 06-04-2010, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by El Jay

The first time I replace valve cover gaskets I throw away the bolts (not on center bolts valve covers), and put studs in the heads.
Then I put the new gaskets over the studs, to hold them (the gaskets) in place, and then install the valve covers.

Great tip, I will have to remember to do it the next time I have the valve covers off.

Danny

tqlspec · 06-04-2010, 11:07 AM

I had the same issue with oil on the starter. The leak turned out to be a small, almost unnoticeable leak around the PCV valve. The vacuum hose was too long and putting stress on the valve causing it to be slightly cocked in the gasket allowing oil to seep threw. It was a very small amount but built up down below over a short period of time.

epashhans · 06-04-2010, 11:54 AM

I love this stuff and I've had good luck with it so far.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-9300/

And its pretty cheap. Its kind of like a rubber cement. Its nice if you get a little sloppy it doesn't really show up hardly at all. Unfortunately I haven't found it anywhere locally, only online.

Racinaround · 06-07-2010, 12:03 AM

If its a real GM Create Engine then it should be under warrenty????
You shouldn't have to mess with it

10-22-2009, 07:24 PM	#1
Hawker7 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 321	Oil Leak on New crate motor I have a new GM 350 crate motor with around 120 miles on it that has developed an oil leak. I can't seem to find where it is coming from but it drips from both starter bolts. It seems to be getting worse and now leaves a 2 inch circle of oil on the garage floor after parking it. I looked around underneath and up top but everything looks clean and good. Anyone else have a leak like this?

10-22-2009, 07:26 PM	#2
big_al_71 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: South Florida Posts: 11,375	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor check the valve cover on the passenger side.... __________________ Get your facts first, and then you can distort them as much as you please!!!!!. Sylvester's build thread >>>http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ht=big+rebuild

10-22-2009, 07:39 PM	#3
oldblue1968chevy Grandpa in the rustmobile... Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Spokane WA/Viola TN Posts: 11,422	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor why so specific big al? (JW) __________________ John Goose-1968 C10 355,9.32-1CR, Vortec Heads ,262 voodoo, 3.73:1 3OTT (HS ride/beater/farm truck) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=317684 Grams 53-1953 Chevrolet Belair http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post4327784 1969 Chevy C10 Shortbed 4.5/6?" Frame off resto http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=548136 1999 Toyota Tacoma 4x4

10-22-2009, 07:41 PM	#4
akpackfan Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Wasilla, Alaska Posts: 38	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor I just had the same problem with the truck I just bought with a 350 crate motor in it and it ended up being the hole just above the starter solenoid that was intended to be used for a dipstick tube didn't have anything in it. No tube or plug so it was open to the oil pan and any time the engine was running oil would splash out in fine dropplets. I had to look between the header tubes, just to the rear and above the starter solenoid to see it. Might want to check it out. Symptoms were oil burning off the header tubes and a good puddle of oil on the ground, running off the bottom of the starter.

10-22-2009, 08:30 PM	#7
cparman sharp as a marble Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: atlantic beach,florida Posts: 1,082	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor two good suggestions here. Big Al is working on the theory of gravity I LIKE IT. A PACK is working on experience. What side is the oil dipstick on? I read where the 290 hp crate comes with either left or right dipstick provision, this would support A PACK. Might suggest letting the engine get cool, and run your finger around the rear of the right hand valve cover to see if it is wet with oil. If it is dry, look to see if the R.H. dipstick hole is open. I just installed a 330 hp crate in my Blazer, and I too had an oil leak. It was the timing cover seal. After I got over being PO'd, looked carefully, and made sure that it was in fact the seal. Pulled the balancer, and looked again, to find the darn seal was leaking from around the outside of the seal. I just knew I cut the seal when I installed the balancer. I did use a install tool for the balancer, but just KNEW it had to be my fault.

10-22-2009, 08:50 PM	#8
Hawker7 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 321	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor I just checked and it looks like both valve covers are leaking in the back..I bought these rubber gaskets from summit: http://www.summitracing.com/parts/FEL-VS12869T/# They are the rubber ones and if I recall they wanted them torqued down pretty good. Any idea how tight they really should be?

10-22-2009, 09:01 PM	#9
cparman sharp as a marble Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: atlantic beach,florida Posts: 1,082	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor is it a center bolt style VC? I used Felpro gaskets on mine, and had to stretch them a bit by hand to get them to relax enough to get in place. I did install them dry, no sealers

10-22-2009, 09:19 PM	#12
hayhauler71 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: St. Paul MN. Posts: 1,996	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor 45 inch pounds

10-23-2009, 01:28 AM	#14
mclairmo Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Take Off Posts: 1,908	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor Also make sure your valve cover rails are not bent where the bolts go through if using stamped steel covers. I switched to cast aluminum valve covers to give me a better, thicker and more rigid sealing surface so I can torque them down more than factory specs.

10-23-2009, 09:31 AM	#15
Chris H 72 C30 Trailer Queen Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: SE MN, USA Posts: 794	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor Dont forget to look at the distributor gasket... I learned this one the hard way! It is just a paper type gasket that seals the distributor body to the intake manifold. __________________ Chris H 72 C30 133" 72 C30 157" flat-dump 69 C10 short fleet 71 ElCamino 2000 K2500 crewcab shortbed (sold, sorry old friend) 2005 GMC 2500HD shortcrew Duramax 2006 K1500 RCSB and a couple other projects/parts

10-23-2009, 09:54 AM	#16
cdowns Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: daytonabeach Posts: 22,956	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor check oilpan gasket// especially if you didnt use a one piece premium one//dont overlook the drainplug either __________________ 71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY

10-23-2009, 10:07 AM	#17
68gmsee Active Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Centrally located between Houston, Austin and Waco. BCS area. Posts: 7,947	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor Re: valve covers.. After 40 yrs more than likely they have been torqued and retorqued a few times. I always lay the cover on a flat surface to insure they are completely straight. I use a section of flat iron that fits in the outer ridge and tap any high/low points with a body hammer or similar. I also like Felpro gaskets. I don't like the rubber types even though I have used them before. I guess it's a preference but I've had better luck with Felpro cork/rubber combo. I torque by feel when I see just a slight expanding of the gasket under the bolt I stop. I use a small amount of gasket goo on the valve cover and I replace them as soon as I notice oil seeping out from them -usually 3-5 yrs depending on engine and usage. Most of the time when that happens it's time to replace.

06-03-2010, 10:08 PM	#18
Malibudraft Registered User Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Lexington, KY Posts: 2	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor My GM 350 Crate is doing the exact same thing. Gonna check all of these ideas. Thanks for the tips!

06-04-2010, 12:16 AM	#19
67/72junkie Account Suspended Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: NC Posts: 1,129	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor I use only felpro cork gaskets on my valve covers.I use 3m weather strip adhesive and glue the gaskets to the valve covers first. After they dry sitting on a flat surface I run a very thin bead of blue permatex on the engine side and rub out flat before installing.As long as you do not over tighten and pinch the gasket you can remove and it will pop right off without breaking to adjust valves etc.lightly rub off permatex and run new bead and reinstall.keeps a good seal and makes the gasket reusable.Most valve covers leak due to over tightening or cheap chrome covers .

06-04-2010, 01:17 AM	#20
El Jay Gone to greener pastures Join Date: May 2007 Location: Gateway to the Delta Posts: 7,354	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor The first time I replace valve cover gaskets I throw away the bolts (not on center bolts valve covers), and put studs in the heads. Then I put the new gaskets over the studs, to hold them (the gaskets) in place, and then install the valve covers. __________________ '69 Chevy 1/2 T LWB Stepper: Daily Beater '72 GMC 3/4 T Fleet: Another Daily Beater '72 Plymouth Gran Coupe: ? "Ah women. They make the highs higher and the lows more frequent." Friedrich Nietzsche "Never kick a fresh turd on a hot day." Harry S. Truman GUN CONTROL: Never having to say, "I missed you." Always fire two warning shots into your attacker's chest area before putting a bullet between his eyes. Paraphrased from Louis Awerbuck



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06-04-2010, 11:07 AM	#23
tqlspec Registered User Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Jackson, TN Posts: 99	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor I had the same issue with oil on the starter. The leak turned out to be a small, almost unnoticeable leak around the PCV valve. The vacuum hose was too long and putting stress on the valve causing it to be slightly cocked in the gasket allowing oil to seep threw. It was a very small amount but built up down below over a short period of time.

06-04-2010, 11:54 AM	#24
epashhans Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: MT Posts: 319	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor I love this stuff and I've had good luck with it so far. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/EDL-9300/ And its pretty cheap. Its kind of like a rubber cement. Its nice if you get a little sloppy it doesn't really show up hardly at all. Unfortunately I haven't found it anywhere locally, only online. __________________ '67 C-10 Shorty - 454, 5spd, and speed holes!

06-07-2010, 12:03 AM	#25
Racinaround Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Mountlake Terrace, WA Posts: 260	Re: Oil Leak on New crate motor If its a real GM Create Engine then it should be under warrenty???? You shouldn't have to mess with it __________________ 1950 Chevy 1500 1961 C-10 1969 C-10 1971 Chevelle 2008 Dodge HD3500 Tow Rig

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