Sactolex

Just changed the oil on the SC I picked up, and while it previously never dripped, it is dripping some now.

Looking at the oil pan and the transmission oil pan, there is old oil collecting on the outside of it. I think changing the oil knocked some of it loose.

Whats the best way to diagnose this oil leak, and how likely is it the rear main seal?

Organized Garage Status

It might be just as simple as cam shaft oil seals or valve cover gaskets. Start with that.

Kris9884

iTrader: (7)

Yeah could be seals but did you go to full synthetic? If so, switch back, that's most likely the case. Many high mile cars find leaks when switching.

1A1

Probably the oil pan FIPG is getting worn and seeping. That is what typically happens.

Steve

salimshah

I am in similar situation.

My plan is to use brake cleaner to clean things out and then use spray talcum powder [since my oil is light in color and I dont plan to use dye in oil].

Incidentally I have felpro pan gasket ready, but I have some apprehension in taking the pan apart .. see this post
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/per...for-sc400.html

Salim

bigwhite

Just had my engine pulled by reputable shop, valve cover gaskets cam seals, oil pan ,timing cover, front and rear seals. $1600.00. They cleaned the old oil and crude and installed steering rack bushings.

Sactolex

How bad was your leaking?

Kris9884

iTrader: (7)

Dang! The price of piece of mind...

bigwhite

1/3 quart to 1000 miles.

salimshah

hmmmmm milage based loss or time based leak.

Salim

Kris9884

iTrader: (7)

So how low are you after say 1000 miles?

tanakamike

I agree, clean everything and start fresh until you can figure out the leak.
I had a similar issue but mine was the cam seals and the crank seal as well, parts on them where cheap make sure you go O.E.M. because I had some problems with aftermarket seals.

bigwhite

Leaks worse when running, so how every long it took to put on the 1000. 98% leak free now.

salimshah

If it is not going out of the exhaust, then check leaks around the filter and valve covers.

Salim