Over the course of the last year or so, I was slowly rebuilding my 96 fxdgw. I had to rebuild the trans, oil pump and swapped out oil lines to braided.

Last week, I took if for a ride and it was leaking oil from the lower engine cases (by the crank).

I'm assuming since it sat for over a year, that the sealant between the cases dried out and is causing my leak.

Is this a fairly common problem after sitting for an extended period of time?

I would like some more info before I actually start to tear it down for engine removal.

Thanks.

Edit:

This is also posted over in general tech tips. Never got a response, so I'm trying it here.

 

Did you have the cases split during this rebuild?

 

I did not. I'm thinking that's what needs to be done now. Just wanted to get some advice first.

 

If you didn't have a leak there before I wouldn't think that's it. You mentioned the oil pump. I'd look there first. Rule out that oil leak being from anything you had apart first. If you rule out everything else and are absolutely sure the leak is from the seam between the case halves, check the torque on the case bolts before going that deep.

 

First find the source of your leak.
Clean suspected area and spray some foot powder on it then start the motor.

Source of leak will be easy to find then.

 

Thanks for the speedy replies!

Can't say I've ever heard of using foot powder before...if it works, why not?

 

Sealant doesn't dry out, these cases can stay leak-free for decades...do the foot powder thing and get back to us, it might just have wet-sumped and it will clear up with a good thrashing.