Hi guys,

Can't quite find the tips I'm looking for in other threads, so hopefully there's some of you can help.

So, ignore the user name, its a '96 899 afterall... S model, not Sporting.

Anyway, we had the oil changed "professionally" about 3500 miles ago, but it seems something didn't quite work out, because there's been an intermittent drip of thick black oil since and it's finally run almost dry.

I topped it off about a week ago with fresh oil, but the leak is black goop.

Questions:

Am I right to think this is just a poorly sealed filter or sump cap?

If so, I'll just re-do it myself - but could someone confirm for me what diameter sump cap and gasket I actually need? Internet has two sizes on offer. Just don't want to start work til I have the right bits...


Or... does this mess sound like a different problem altogether?


Thanks very much everyone.

Have you been underneath to see where its leaking from?

I wouldn't expect engine oil that is 3,500 miles old to be gloopy

I've not been under it properly, just quick look in a car park.

Yeah, I'm concerned about the colour.

But it seems like its coming from (or at least gathering at) the sump plug.

You have any ideas for what else it could be?

I thought it might be transmission oil perhaps, but I'm not totally sure if that's likely.

Fiat sumps have a tendency to rust, from the outside of course. Over years of use, there will be some black gunge build-up in the sump, and if the sump is becoming porous, what leaks out will be coloured by this goo. I suppose a leak from the plug is also likely to be similar.

The sump plug is a tapered thread, so seals as it tightens. DO NOT tighten it to cure a leak, as you may never get it out again. The drip might be on the plug just because it is the lowest point.

Engine oil just smells oily. Gearbox oil has a distinctly stronger smell, as it contains sulphur. Touch and sniff to diagnose, but gearbox oil will struggle to drip off the sump.

You need to get under it, and clean off as much oil as you can. A clean area will better show the source. Oil will always fall, so the drip may not be near the leak. Get it all clean. Run for long enough to show the leak. Find the highest point for the source. Then report back for help with a cure.

Good advice, thanks.