350i sump removal

[Terence]

Looks like my sump gasket may be leaking (bolts are nice and tight). Does anyone know if sump can be removed without lifting the engine? It looks as though it should be possible. It is only a small leak but as the car is up on stands may as well do it now, plus I want to use it to commute in the summer and if I leave any oil drips in the car park I will have the ISO14001 police after me.

[wild rover]

It's a bit fiddly but can be done without raising the engine I use rtv sealant doesn't leak after a few years use. Mind you don't overdo the sealant.

[adam quantrill]

Sometimes the leak is from the rocker covers, which drips down and around the sump, so go round all 8 screws with a screwdriver and if any were a little loose that might be the solution.

[Terence]

Thanks for advice. I had another look today and the oil appears to be dripping off the heads of the two rear most sump retaining bolts (which are tight). Interestingly I have wiped the drips off the bolt heads and the floor twice since parking the car where it is and there are a few spots on the floor again (engine has not been run since parking). I am assuming that the oil level is below the sump block interface (when at normal level) So it may be as suggested oil is leaking from further up and accumulating somewhere where it is slowly running down. Will get underneath tomorrow and have a closer look.