In case my signature doesn't work- 2003 F150 SC 4X4, 5.4L V8, 3.55 LS

I have an oil leak, but I can't seem to find out exactly where it originates.

I noticed a few drops of oil on the garage floor last week. I looked underneath and could see oil around parts of the valve pan cover gasket and other areas.

I cleaned everything off with a rag and ran the truck for another 2 or 3 days.

I looked underneath again and I see less oil, except for one area- just above and behind the air conditioner compressor (passenger side, front of motor).

I would like whatever advice anyone can give me.

The truck only has 19,000 miles on it. In my mind, I think I should watch it for a little while and see if the oil returns and drips again. If it does drip, then its back to the dealer. My guess is that something like this is covered by the factory warranty.

Also, is it possible that the oil I see is actually from the air conditioning compressor?

Any tech input will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

The leak should be covered under warranty unless it's caused by running over something etc.
If your dealer can't tell right away where it's coming from they might steam clean it and put dye in the oil. Then they might have you drive it for a few days and then have it rechecked. The dye shows up with a black light and usually makes it pretty easy to see where the leak is coming from.
Is it possbiel that someone spilled oil when filling it after an oil change? That's the general area of your leak.

 

Racerguy- thanks for the reply. I thought about the oil spilling after an oil change. I changed the oil last and I'm usually pretty careful. Even so, I checked closely around the filler tube and the valve cover. I didn't see any sign of oil on the upper area of the engine, just behind the compressor and below.

It's hard to see back there- what's actually there?

Thanks

 

You could possibly have a leaking timing cover, head gasket, front timing cover seal. None of those is common though.

 

gasket is common, but I've been told its usually in the rear area of the passanger side... and 19k is a bit soon I would think... better take it in for warrentee service...

 

I just noticed an oil leak on my 2003 F150. I have been parking it on my lawn or in the street, but i headed out of town for several days, so i left it n my driveway. when i returned I noticed a spot about the size of a basketball on the driveway. It's coming from somewhere on the passenger side. Could this be the valve cover leaking?

I have also been experiencing a lack of power, the truck will get up to 3500 rpm and sound like it's straining but dosent down shift. I'm thinking of driving to Utah, and want to make sure I'm good to make the 800 mile trip. I just dont want to get ripped off at the dealership.

I will probably degrease the engine tomorrow. i havent had a chance to clean it since i bought the truck last month.