Classic/Antique Car Repair: motor oil leak, Jag, Rolls

Question
My dad has a 71 chevy c 10 it has a motor from a 1958 chevy
its a283 4.6 it is leaking oil down the back side of the motor
but its under the distributor cap sits it spews down the back
side of the motor we cant find th eoil sending switch spot?any
ideas?

Answer
Hello Deborah,

I have volunteered to answer questions that relate to “Automotive Wooden Interior Trim” - specifically the “Real” wood trim parts found in Jaguars, Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Bentleys, BMWs, Jensen Healeys, Austin Healeys, Triumphs - etc. etc. etc.

I do appreciate you asking me a question, however that is NOT in my area expertise.

BUT, I have done plenty of "wrenching" in my life...and a quite a bit on the Chevy v-8's.  My guess would be one of 3 things.  The first is that the valve cover gaskets are leaking...replacing those are quite easy and the gaskets are inexpensive.  The second is that the rear oil seal under the intake manifold is leaking....and replacing that one involves much more expertise...and you should have a mechanic do it.  The third is that maybe the gasket around the distributor is leaking...and again, you should have a mechanic do that work.

In order to determine what is leaking, you need to thoroughly give give that motor a "bath"...and get off ALL the Oil and Dirt.  Especially back where it has leaked.  Then you can see where the leak is coming from.  Often an old make-up mirror will help you see back in those areas.  Good luck.

Now, back to my specialty...should you or any of your fellow automotive enthusiasts have interior wood trim in their vehicles....and IF that wood is having trouble.....I can help.

Thank you.

OH, and for what it is worth, I would think that you Might be able to find or order a repair manual for your car, either from a Local Parts Store or Amazon, Borders or maybe on eBay etc. etc.  It would be a good idea to have one, if you are going to do mechanical work yourself.  

Also for what it is worth, I would think that you might want to search for a classic/vintage car club in your area.  Many folks in clubs are very helpful people and may be able to help you find your answer...making a friend or two in that "world" would be very helpful, especially if you are going to do mechanical work yourself.  Who knows, maybe one of those folks has had the same problem or can assist you personally with the answer to your question.

(I would appreciate you taking the time to Rate my response....thanks)