Jeep oil leak

[mark4974]

Hi folks,

I own a M38 jeep which as all military vehicles do leaks at bit of oil!

I went to take it out this morning and whilst it was idling on the drive noticed a pool of oil on the floor. Closer inspection revealed oil leaking from the bottom of the bell housing. Not quite running out but a fairly constant drip!

Im guessing the main seal has gone so not a quick fix but anyone have any other suggestions before I start taking her apart!

Cheers

Mark

[CMP-Phil]

Hi Mark

First how much have you driven it lately?  All of my Military Vehicles of that and early vintage tend to leak more when they haven't been run for a while .   But it seems to slow way down after they have been driven for a couple of hours.  

If it is not running out in a steady stream, I'd check the oil level and take it for a drive.  Checking the oil level in the crank case is also important, is it overfilled, does it smell of gas, does it feel thin?  

You probably guess what I'm getting at gas getting into the crankcase and dilution.

Let us know what you find.

Cheers Phil 

 

   

[Richard Farrant]

With a leak coming from the bell housing it cannot be ruled out that it might be from the gearbox. Ascertain if it is engine oil or gearbox oil. As Phil said, if the engine has not been run for a long time and the old type of rope seals on the rear of the crankshaft are fitted then they could have dried out and could stop leaking once they have got oil on to them.