Expert: Robert Summers - 11/25/2007

Question
I just installed a new Chevy 350 in my boat. Unfortunately I have noticed oil at the gasket between the timing cover and oil pan. This leak is more like a seap. It's not that bad. The boat sat for 6 months during the winter and only about a drop or two were in the bilge area. I have heard that this can be a problem with Chevy 350's. I spent a lot of time installing this engine. Should I be overly concerned about this issue? The engine runs fine and my oil pressure is good. If I monitor this seap and it doesn't get worse, do you suggest letting it be.

Answer
Hi larry.... it will not pose any problem unless you let engine get too low on oil....you can loosen bolts on oil pan just enough to let pan down a bit and using hi temp silicone put a bead in the crack allow to dry and then retighten oil pan bolts...hope this helps