oil leak

[chad millett]

Its a 93 town car. The oil is leaking from the area where the oil filter is but its not coming from the oil filter. It leaks pretty heavily until it reaches operating temperature and then it slows to almost nothing. Does this sound familiar. Could there be a common problem that someone knows about?

[Towncar]

Hi again Chad -

That leak is a very common problem.
The Oil Filter Adapter Plate (Assembly) gasket leaks after awhile.

I've highlighted areas that can leak, less common are the pressure switches and filter.
I suppose that gasket can be had from any parts shop. Some gasket sealer might be a good idea too.

[chad millett]

Thank you so much! I was hoping for a response like this. I will check it as soon as the sleet stops.

[Bearfoot]

I took my car in today for the replacement speed control switch. After it was installed they came in and told me I had an oil leak - well duh! I wondered where all the oil on the ground was coming from.

The oil was leaking from the oil filter adapter plate and the oil sending unit. Cost to repair? $230.00 I told them I'd let it leak for awhile. I went to a mechanic in our church and he will do it for $75, and that includes the parts. Guess who'll get the job.

[junk yard doggie]

Hi Guys

I replaced that gasket on mine, it's an easy fix. I didn't replace it due to leaks. I busted off the water neck piece while swaping the engine. I figured i'd replace the gasket while I had the piece off. Note to everyone, remove that houseing when swaping engines.

[chad millett]

I finally changed that gasket today. It wasnt too bad. The worst part is having to drain the coolant. Its all good now. The gasket was under $7. You cant beat that.

[Towncar]

.. I wonder how many people thought they had a bad head gasket from the oil and antifreeze mixing when it was actually this gasket ..

That's a very good point.. We should all keep that in mind.

Chad brings some pointers for the rest of us:

• It was pretty easy
• Antifreeze also runs through this gasket
• There are 4 10 mm bolts
• It was a $7 fix. ( not counting oil and anti frees)

Thanks Chad!!