1990 4.3 Mercruiser oil leak by the bilge pump

[ccustomrides]

Well I noticed it last year and again this spring. A little spot of oil under my pulley/oil pan in the front of the engine. Just a little spot after sitting for 5-6 months. I dont see oil during the summer months. I do get some oil on my finger when I wipe the oil pan/rim where my pulley rides against. I did hear that it can be either my oil pan gasket or timing chain cover leaking oil. My question is this? Is there a easy way to tell. Can I drop the oil pan and replace the gasket (oil pan gasket) without removing the engine. I did read in some other forum that you can take a picture to see where its coming from. Like I said its not a big leak but a very small drip. Oil level never changes during the summer seasons.
I know there is a problem and I want to fix it. So what should I check or get ready for.
I service my own boat and I am ready to go this season. I was thinking more like come FALL time I would handle this project if I had to pull the engine.
Thanks for all the help.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: 1990 4.3 Mercruiser oil leak by the bilge pump

A leak that small would certainly have me waiting till fall. At that time you can pull the engine and clean it up and check for leaks etc. I say leave it alone for now and go boating! (Keeping an eye on things on a regular basis of course).