Y- Block Oil Leak

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Sep 8, 2005 | 03:08 PM

fking1

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From: Michigan

Y- Block Oil Leak

My 1955 239 V8 appears to be leaking oil on the driver's side where the head and block meet. Is at the rear bottom left corner above the oil pump.Motor recently overhauled with new head gaskets. There is an oil galley that runs from the pump through the block and into the valve chamber near the leak.Should't make a diff. Re-torqued the head, still leaks. Don't really want to pull the head until absolutely necessary.
Fred

Sep 9, 2005 | 08:54 AM

Earl

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Joined: Mar 2000

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From: Waynesville, OH

Sure it's not the rocker arm cover running down to the head/block parting line? That would sure be an easier fix.

Sep 9, 2005 | 10:18 AM

46yblock

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Joined: Jul 2003

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From: Southern Oregon

I think Earl is right. Your valve cover gasket is probably leaking. Mine is doing the same thing as yours, and in the same location. My cover gasket is the problem. If you remove the sparkplugs on number 7 and 8 cylinders, their outside will likely be covered with oil.

Sep 9, 2005 | 10:26 AM

e william

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Joined: Mar 2003

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From: S.C.

if it is the valve cover gaskets...the only way I've gotten them to quit leaking at the back corners is to use a sealer on the gaskets...Pep-Boys used to sell something we referred to as "yellow-snot"! Dont know the real name but it worked real well. Clean all oil and grease from head and valve cover surfaces, put sealer on and lightly seat the covers to the head, let is cure and then snug down. This should keep the gaskets from moving around.
Original covers had a lip on the inside that kept gaskets in place....aftermarkets dont seem to have this.

good luck

Sep 9, 2005 | 03:10 PM

fking1

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From: Michigan

Thanks for the replies. I was sure it was not the valve covers as I never could see any oil there. Had the covers off to re-torque the head bolts and after a drive today there is oil around the rear corner of the cover. Will take it off and put hi-temp silicone sealer around and check it out. Will post the results.
Fred