Evening all,

As some of you know from previous dramas, I have 1998 RR P38a 80,000
miles. Had it about 7 or 8 months.

When I bought it I changed all the oils and filters and has been
running ok since i've had despite a couple of teething troubles.

I month or two ago I noticed an oil leak but was not too bothered
about it as it did not seem to be using any oil. However, i've just
happened to check the oil while i was changing the diesel filter and
noticed that it's gone down from almost exactly "full" to just over
half. I suppose i had to put a mug full of oil in it to bring it up to
a more sensible level.

I am hope that the engine oil is leaking from the engine and not being
burnt.

The oil leak seems to be from the front of the engine, on both sides
and the oil the runs down the engine and onto the floor, say around
the area of piston number one. It also leaks a bit from the oil filler
cap which also runs down the side of the engine and i thought that
initially this was the cause of the oil down the side of the engine,
but now im not so sure....

I have put my palm over the open filler cap whilst the engine is
running and there doesnt seem to be much in the way of crankcase
pressure, although the engine was cold when i did this. I seem to
remember that I have done this in the past and have not noticed it. I
would not expect engine wear at 80K and judging by the condition of
the rest of the engine and vehicle the mileage appears to be genuine
and the service record was virtually up to date when i bought it.

I am tempted to buy a diesel compression tester kit and establish at
least that the engine itself is not worn and in general good fettle.

Anyone had oil leaks on the P38 diesel or have any ideas as to what it
might be.

Thanks in advance

Dai