Oil Filter Leak?

[eduJ]

I have an oil leak that is dripping from the side of the oil filter. It appears to be seeping past the oil filter seal, but I am not 100% sure. What is on top of the oil filter housing that can also cause a leak?

There is no physical damage to the seal from the oil filter and the old seal is not on the block. I use a Quaker State oil filter and I do believe that it is on the smaller side when compared to the OEM one. Are certain brands of oil filters more prone to leaks?

I will try to take some photos and post them later. Thank you in advance.

[GrubyFngaz]

Could it be the oil cooler o-ring/seal?? Not sure, but my mechanic said mine needs to be replaced the next time I do an oil change. I have a good bit of oil build up/leaking from that same area and they told me it's a pretty common issue when you get a good bit of mileage on this car.

[GrubyFngaz]

This post might help:
2001-qx4-oil-leak-need-help-identifying ... 79726.html

[Towncivilian]

VG33Es don't have oil coolers. No oil filter should be leaking from its gasket.

Could you post a photo of the leak?

[Chuck Tribolet]

Take the filter off and look at the mark left by the gasket. Does it overlay the edge of the smooth metal at all? Some
brands of filters have slightly different sized gaskets. For example, the Wix filter for the 3.5 liter gets REAL CLOSE to
the edge of the machined metal. I can see how some might go beyond it.

I'd then install a new filter, just in case there is some problem with the old filter.

How much are you tightening the filter and how? The book says 2/3 - 3/4 turn after contact, by hand. Too much or
too little can cause problems.

Are you lubricating the the gasket on the new filter prior to installing? This allows it to slide and not deform as it
is tightened. I lube the new gasket by touching it to the old gasket.

Chuck

[eduJ]

I adjusted the oil filter and it leaks less now, but it still leaks a bit. I finally got some photos. I believe a I have two leaks--one from the oil filter area then another one coming from somewhere close to the alternator because it's soaked in oil. The top of the alternator and everything above it is dry.

Here are some shots I snapped.

[Towncivilian]

Try tightening your valve cover screws, they often back off somewhat over the years. Even if this is not the source of the leak, it's beneficial anyway.

Maybe it's the power steering oil pressure switch? See its location on page EC-446 of the factory service manual. If you're low on power steering fluid, that will probably confirm it too.

[eduJ]

Definitely motor oil and not ATF. I'll try tightening the valve cover screws. Thanks.