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Engine Oil Leak from the top

Old Jan 6, 2012
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Engine Oil Leak from the top

I got a puddle of oil leaking from the top of the engine (passenger side).
I can't figure it out where it comes from...may be from the gaps of engine.
Since I'm a newbie on car engines, I'm wondering if experts here came help me out. Is there any type of seals of washers on that side of engine?
Should I attempt to open the top of engine?


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Old Jan 6, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

There is a gasket near the end of the camshaft that has caused problems for some members. It's number 6: http://www.hondapartscheap.com/index...D%20%28SOHC%29

To pinpoint the leak: Clean the affected area real good (brake or carb cleaner works well). Then turn the engine on and watch that spot. If nothing happens, drive it for 5-10 minutes then look again.
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Old Jan 6, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Originally Posted by lazlong
Clean the affected area real good
Throw a bunch of talc on it (baby powder?) after it is perfectly clean.

I actually have leak tracing powder in a spray can for this, but ordinary talc works well if it doesn't blow off.
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Old Jan 7, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Change your pcv valve if you havent changed it in awhile. Or you can even clean it with break cleaner since its metal.
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Old Jan 7, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Order part #6. It's a common leaker.
Pop off the old one, lube the new one and smack it in place.
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Old Jan 7, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Thank you for all the replies guys.

I took your recommandation and replaced part #6 (thank you Lazlong for the link, that really helped because dealer didn't know what I'm talking about until I give him the part #).

Can't drive the civic for a couple days to let the sealant to dry

Anyone know why Honda would put a plastic cap onto a engine where it is in contact with hot oil?
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Old Jan 7, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Originally Posted by nieuport17
because dealer didn't know what I'm talking about until I give him the part #).
I know exactly why they don't. Too lengthy to explain here, but rest assured that most shops don't have all star teams. Dealer and independent both.

Anyone know why Honda would put a plastic cap onto a engine where it is in contact with hot oil?
Cost.
It's dirt cheap to make.
And if it's the type with an O ring, it's the O ring that leaks. The rubber hardens and shrinks with many heat cycles.
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Old Nov 20, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

To fix this leak, does the valve cover need to be removed. I can't seem to open the link with #6 part # can you post the #. I am having the same issue with my 02.
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Old Nov 20, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Originally Posted by Derrilick
To fix this leak, does the valve cover need to be removed.

I can't seem to open the link with #6 part # can you post the #. I am having the same issue with my 02.
Link above is dead, so I'm just guessing this was it:


12513-P72-003

PLUG, CYLINDER HEAD
8.00 5.60


Go here, pick out YOUR car from the choices:
http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/

Pick "Honda parts catalog online", build your car, then select "cylinder head (SOHC)" from the list.


NOTE: This is a US catalog, but it should still work up there....eh?
Some versions of the cars are different, like your Si is our EX.
Our Si with a 2.0 engine you apparently didn't get at all.


HTH
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Old Nov 21, 2012
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Re: Engine Oil Leak from the top

Yes that is it. Thanks But does that plug come out with out removing the head?

HuH!

Thanks Derrilick
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