Oil Sump Leak Sealant - What Works Best?

Car Maintenance & Repairs
1

I’ve recently discovered an oil sump leak in my car, and I’m looking for some advice on sealants that have worked well for you all. I’d prefer a DIY solution that doesn’t require extensive repairs, as I’m trying to keep costs down.

What to Consider

  • Type of Sealant: Are there specific brands or types of sealants that you recommend? I’ve seen both liquid and tape options out there.
  • Application Tips: Any tricks to applying the sealant effectively? I’d love to avoid making the problem worse during the patch-up.
  • Longevity and Results: How long did your fixes last? I want something I can depend on without having to check or reapply all the time.

My Situation

My car has been leaking a bit, and it has started to show up on my driveway. I’m hoping to tackle this before it turns into something more serious. If you’ve had success with a certain sealant or method, I’d appreciate your recommendations.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

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2

I’m currently dealing with an oil sump leak as well. I’ve heard good things about RTV silicone sealants. They seem to hold up well under pressure and temperature. Has anyone used them?

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3

I tried RTV and it worked wonders for my old car! Just make sure to clean the surfaces well before application for the best results.

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4

I’ve had mixed results with sealants. Some products claim to be ‘permanent’, but I’ve had leaks come back within months. Maybe it’s the application method more than the product?

5

That’s true! I had a similar issue with one brand. It sealed up nicely but then failed during summer heat. What sealant did you use?

6

I usually go for a product called BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak. It’s user-friendly and doesn’t require extensive prep. Just pour it in and drive. Just a heads up though, it may not work for bigger cracks.

7

I’ve heard a lot about BlueDevil. Does it really work? I’ve been hesitant to try it since I’ve always tackled leaks the traditional way.

8

Honestly, if it’s a small leak, some of these pour-in sealants might do the trick. I’ve even seen some folks use crushed walnuts! But, that’s a bit unconventional.

9

Crushed walnuts? That sounds a bit nutty, but sometimes old tricks work! I might just give that a try if I can’t find anything else.

10

I believe RTV is great, but always make sure to check your local temperatures. Different sealants can perform poorly in extreme weather conditions. Stay safe with your choice!

11

I’ve been thinking about getting a sealant but I’m worried about making the leak worse. Could applying something wrong end up damaging my engine further?

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12

I’ve had success using RTV silicone sealant for oil sump leaks. Just make sure to clean the surfaces well before applying! You don’t want any dirt or oil interfering with the seal.

13

Great advice! I’ve found that letting the sealant cure for at least 24 hours before adding oil really helps. Rushing it can lead to failure.

14

Don’t forget about proper surface prep! Sanding down any rough spots on the sump can make a huge difference in how well the sealant adheres. It’s worth the extra effort.

15

Absolutely! I’d also suggest using a solvent to wipe down the area before applying the sealant to ensure it’s completely free from grease.

16

Have any of you tried using epoxy sealants? I wonder if they offer more durability compared to silicone. Interested to know what works best in the long run!

17

I’ve used epoxy in the past, but it can be tricky to apply. The timing of the cure can be a hassle. Silicone is just so much easier to work with for DIYers!

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18

[quote=“ggallegos, post:6, topic:988”]Silicone is just so much easier to work with…[quote]True! Plus, I’ve had pretty good results with silicone over the years. It’s just so forgiving if you mess up!

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19

One common pitfall to avoid: don’t overapply the sealant. It creates a mess and can squeeze out when the sump is bolted back on. Less really is more!

20

Exactly! I learned that the hard way on my first attempt! Now I just use a thin, even layer.