Synthetic Oil Leaks | FerrariChat

Synthetic Oil Leaks

Discussion in '308/328' started by BNSC100, Feb 3, 2011.

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  1. BNSC100

    BNSC100 Karting

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    Michael
    Not trying to start another oil war.. : )
    I currently have what I'm sure is a cam seal leak. Couple of drops from the forward bank area after a drive, then it stops...

    Curently running Castrol 20/50... Have purchased some MOTUL 15/50 Semi Synth. Dont like running the 20/50 or 10/40 when it calls for 10/50. Those seem to be the non-synth options here in USA... (I know many of you like XYZ/40 and use it...) And, dont want to go for full synth (more weight options) cause of the leak...

    Rolling the dice that semi synth might not be as bad... I might end up wrong.

    CAN ANYONE GIVE ME AN IDEA OF MILAGE TIME TO NOTICE AN INCREASE IN LEAKAGE DUE TO SYNTH OIL (OR SEMI SYNTH). TRYING TO PROPERLY TIME THE CLEANING OF ENGINE BAY IN CASE I WIND UP A LOOSER.. : )
     
  2. miketuason

    miketuason F1 World Champ Owner Silver Subscribed

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    I too was leaking oil from the cam seal using Redline 5w50 synth. (pic below) but after replacing the cam seal the leak is gone not one drop and still using the same Redline 5w50 synthetic. I suggest to replace your seals, you don't have to go back to conventional oil.
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
  3. BNSC100

    BNSC100 Karting

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    I know. Putting it off until next major. Just a few drops... Living with it for now.
     
  4. deeprivergarage

    deeprivergarage Formula Junior Owner

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    You may want to read Dr. Ali E. Haas' oil article. The article has some very interesting conclusions regarding oil weight and synthetic versus mineral oil, but his research and analysis is very thorough. It can be found in F-chat or on the net. I have learned to deal with oil drips. When the oil drips become oil leaks; then it is time for some maintenance.
     
  5. f308jack

    f308jack F1 Rookie

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    Although Dr. Haas' postings are certainly worth reading, and hold a lot of valuable information, his conclusions are, as far as I am concerned, often wrong and at times dangerous to your engine-lifespan.
    His musings would become more relevant from the point where his 'research cars' get used as intended.

    To the original Q: Sybths are more slippery than semi's or dino. If you have a leak using dino oil, you certainly will have one using the synth. A leaking cam seal on the front of the engine may also contaminate the belt, which cannot be good. Bite the bullit and replace the seal.
     
  6. robertgarven

    robertgarven F1 Veteran Owner

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    It can be the valve gasket and not the actual inner seal that leaks.
     

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