Oil Leak

[Lexington]

This is not 4Runner question but I know there are a lot of engine guys here.

My dad gave my son his 96 Ford Ranger a few years ago. About 6 years ago he put in a Jasper rebuilt engine and it currently has about 30,000 miles on it.

Today he had new wheels put on it. The shop told him he had a small oil leak in the rear engine seal but it’s minor. He recommended that when my son does his next oil change to use high mileage oil. He said the additives in it will help seal the small leak. Not questioning the guys advice but I’ve never heard of this before and was just curious about it. I’d like to hear your thoughts on it.

 

[Salvo]

This shouldn’t take long.

 

[Hammer0313]

There is a seal swelling product called AT-205 that you can add to the engine oil, it really does work very well. Only thing is you need to put a bottle in with every oil change.

 

[Ezlife45]

All depends on what you want to throw at the truck. If it's a standard and you have an upcoming clutch job, take care of it then. If an auto, I wouldnt' drop the tranny unless you need to and then replace it.

I have an 02 truck that I noticed a little oil leak on the rear main several years ago. I don't particularly feel like putting all the work into a spare beater vehicle. If the leak isn't leaving puddles in the driveway, I'd leave it alone. My leak doesn't puddle, but it is enough to "wet" the bellhousing and crossmember.

I just wipe it down when I do my 5K oil change and let it be. Now if I puddled, and needed to top off oil before 5K I would fix it. Or just become aware of the loss rate and keep the oil topped off.

 

[Lexington]

There is a seal swelling product called AT-205 that you can add to the engine oil, it really does work very well. Only thing is you need to put a bottle in with every oil change.

Thanks Hammer

I think this may be a better solution. The engine only has about 30,000 miles and even though it is a rebuild, I’m not sure if using high mileage oil was the best option.

At this point it’s a minor leak that I don’t think is even leaving a puddle. It seems to occur only when driving. So if a additive will stop the leak then that will be the best option.