BigAl1

At the stage now of not wanting to go any deeper into the engine as no signs of bearing problems and the oil pressure was 5 bar when it was running. But, I noticed the oil seapage is from the girdle split line and lower, so does this indicate the girdle to block seam is leaking? Or just the way the oil leaks at the front were flowing along the block when driving? Should I go ahead and split the block to reseal the girdle face?

GlenL

No! Stop now. If you're sure the mains are good then leave it alone.

Herman K

That's just from flowing along when driving when you replace all your seals you'll be bone dry.

928mac

Well . . . you are this far.
Are you confident that you can replace bearings, plasti-gauge them and reassemble it. If not then stop or have someone come over and help.

I did my mains well the engine was in the car
But I wouldn't recommend that method now that I've been there.

The oil was more then likely from the top.

Brad

BigAl1

Thanks for the replies. I've done engine builds and even the machining before, but I'll stop here and focus on the new seals and gaskets now.

Bill Ball

Notice that where most of the oil grime is, under cylinder 1, there is a path of grime from above. So, the oil is most likely from the cam cover (or possibly but much less likely, the head) gasket in that area or the front cam seal, all of which you will be replacing.

By the level of varnish I see on the girdle nuts and bearing bridges, I would say this engine has been running dino oil.