Oil leak question

[thellamie]

So a month ago I replaced the head gasket on my 88 16v turbo. Before it would drip just a tiny little bit of oil, but now I'm losing quite a bit more.

I think I know my problem but wanted some opinions. When I did the head gasket job I left the turbo and turbo oil return tube installed. Thinking back I didn't follow the directions . I put the O-ring on the return tube rather than in the block so I don't think it's sealing correctly.

So the question is: Does it have to be put into the block and then the return tube put in? (i.e. is the block recessed for the ring and the tube tensions it?) Has anyone had luck getting it to seat after putting it on the return tube first?

[Jim Mesthene]

I always put it on the tube, lube the O-ring with a tiny amount of RTV.

[Matthew]

Could the cam cover gasket be leaking? Can you see oil leaking from the return pipe?

[philbert]

Or since you did the headgasket, that means you also had to remove the chain tensioner. Those can cause nasty leaks too if the gasket is shot.

[grif900]

my first thought was also the valve cover,did you use a new cover gasket?

[thellamie]

New head gasket which is sealing nicely. New tensioner seal which is doing its job as well.

What isn't sealing well is the o-ring on the return tube, which after inspection is my disappointment.

It is clearly broken as half of it is sticking out. Now if I can just gather a few other things I need to get free shipping.

thanks guys.

[philbert]

Go down to your local auto parts store like NAPA. They have boxes of O-rings.

The best way I've found to do this is to remove the tube from the turbo, put the O-ring on the tube, then finagle the tube back on.

[Matthew]

Remember that o-ring will be subjected to a lot of heat from the block. You may need to specify a temperature resistant o-ring.

[philbert]

Originally Posted by Matthew

Remember that o-ring will be subjected to a lot of heat from the block. You may need to specify a temperature resistant o-ring.

You're right, I should have specified that. They have bins for a/c o-rings, heat and oil resistant o-rings, etc.

[cdaly]

And leave all bolts loose until you have the pipe in place and everything connected up. Then tighten as required.