ENGINE OIL LEAK INSPECTION

Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine, particularly at the area of the suspected leak. If an oil leak source is not readily identifiable, the following steps should be followed:

• Disconnect the fresh air hose (make-up air) at the cylinder head cover and plug or cap the nipple on the cover.
• Remove the PCV valve hose from the cylinder head cover. Cap or plug the PCV valve nipple on the cover.
• Attach an air hose with pressure gauge and regulator to the dipstick tube.

  CAUTION: Do not subject the engine assembly to more than 20.6 kPa (3 psi) of test pressure.

• Gradually apply air pressure from 1 psi to 2.5 psi maximum while applying soapy water at the suspected source. Adjust the regulator to the suitable test pressure that provides the best bubbles which will pinpoint the leak source. If the oil leak is detected and identified, repair per service manual procedures.
• If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal area, refer to the section, Inspection for Rear Seal Area Leak.

NOTE: If oil leakage is observed at the dipstick tube to block location; remove the tube, clean and reseal using Mopar® Stud & Bearing Mount (press fit tube applications only), and for O-ring style tubes, remove tube and replace the O-ring seal.

INSPECTION FOR REAR SEAL AREA LEAKS

Since it is sometimes difficult to determine the source of an oil leak in the rear seal area of the engine, a more involved inspection is necessary. The following steps should be followed to help pinpoint the source of the leak.

If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal area:

CAUTION: Do not exceed 20.6 kPa (3 psi).

CAUTION: Use extreme caution when crankshaft polishing is necessary to remove minor nicks and scratches. The crankshaft seal flange is especially machined to complement the function of the rear oil seal.