MEP 003A Push Rod Tube Oil Leak (I think)...

[Polycop]

I've noticed an oil leak, which appears to be coming from the top of the push rod tube. I looked pretty close and it's not coming from the valve cover and leaking down. In looking at the TM is looks like there is some sort of packing in the push rod tube, which I'm guessing is a oil seal of sorts? Anyone ever tackle one of these, what is the packing made of and how big of a job is it?

Thanks,

Poly

 

[Jimc]

Its just a rubber o-ring. Obviously you need to pull the head so you will need a head and valve cover gasket as well

 

[Polycop]

It's not leaking to the point that I want to pull the head. I'll keep an eye on it and if it worsens I guess I know what I'll need.

Thanks,

 

[storeman]

there is an o-ring at the top and bottom of each tube.

 

[Jimc]

Sometimes what can happen is the tube itself gets stuck or frozen in place. The tube is supposed to move where the spring presses down on tue lower oring and makes the tube pit pressure upward. The pressure squishes the iring slightly helping it make a seal around the tube. Over time if the tube sticks and wont move up and down freely tue pressure against the oring is lost and it can leak. If you can gently twist and spin the tube you may ba able to free things up. The tube is thin wall aluminum so dont be rough with it or grip it hard with pliers or anything like that.

 

[storeman]

Good point Jim.

 

[Jimc]

poly, here are some pictures so you can see how it all works and what it looks like apart


http://www.steelsoldiers.com/showthread.php?101932-mep-003a-teardown-and-refurb/page3

 

[unclebeau]

Just like the old school air cooled Volkswagen motors.

 

[Polycop]

The picts helped vs the TM drawings figuring out how it goes together. When Jimc said to be careful of the thin walled tubbing he wasn't kidding as mine is now sporting a minor dent. The push rod tube moved a little so it's not frozen. I'll keep an eye on it and if it becomes too problematic I'll get some gaskets / O-rings and I'll knock it out.

Thanks to all...

Poly