Oil Leak - how to fix

[peg_pilot]

Using the old UV florescent dye trick, I just found that the source of the puddle of oil under my Elan is a leak between the head and the back of the front cover. It's on the exhaust side about half way out from the cylinder block to the edge of the timing case. I know the right way to fix it is to pull the engine and try to find a timing case back plate that actually has a flat top. But I just had the engine out a year ago specifically to fix oil leaks, so at this point I am ready to find a cliff and push the car over it. Is there any sort of goop I could smear on the outside to stem the tide of oil ? Even if I had to reapply it every month I can face that a lot more readily than another engine removal. Thanks for any suggestions.

[rgh0]

I have used fuel tank repair epoxy putty as a temporary fix for this sort of leak.

cheers
Rohan

[nigelrbfurness]

Bearing in mind that fixing an oil leak from the outside cannot be considered as anything other than a temporary fix, I've fixed leaks quite successfully in the same area by leaving the engine for a day to get completely cold, cleaning the area thoroughly with thinners and Isopropyl alcohol to get rid of every trace of oil on the surface and in the joint then using clear silicone sealant - instant gasket is best - to encase the joint for the full extent of the leak. You can even use masking tape to give the lump of sealant straight edges. Whilst probably achieving the same as using epoxy putties it is much easier to remove and reapply and doesn't look quite so horrible! Also because its flexible you don't have problems with it cracking with temperature. I've used the same stuff to fix my interior rear-view mirror to the windscreen, not that that is relevant.

Nigel F.