Confusing oil leak

[Shelby]

Hi all I'm a newbie I would really be grateful if someone could give me some help and advice,back in June I bought a 1970 minor 1000 when I got it home I found a oil leak and it looked like it was coming from the inspection cover towards the front of the engine with the oil breather, so I replaced the the gaskets and took it for a run when I got back oil was running around the inspection cover again and down the side of the engine. When having another look it looks like it's coming from the front corner of the engine between the head and the block, has anyone had this problem before and what's the answer?? I've attached some photo to show you what I mean.[frame][/frame]

[bmcecosse]

There is an oil passage there which takes oil up to the rocker gear. The head gasket may be allowing oil to leak - or there could be a leak in the cylinder head - a cross drilling is blocked with a plug - and it may be leaking. Off with it's head!

[Shelby]

Hi,
Thank you for your quick reply, Dam I had an idea you would say that. thanks again for your help.

[martin418]

i second the gasket leaking by the oil feed , i have had the same problem

[bmcecosse]

It's not common - is adequate oil getting to the rockers ? The little 'plug' looks ok in that picture.

[Shelby]

Oil is getting up to the rockers, not sure if it's the right amount though, have you got an idea how much this is going to cost me?

[bmcecosse]

£5 for a head gasket? And a couple of hours work... Of course - may as well grind in the valves while you have the head off !

[liammonty]

i second the gasket leaking by the oil feed , i have had the same problem

I've also had that problem on a car I had years ago. It turned into quite a 'gusher', so be careful with it if you are using the car before sorting it!

[IslipMinor]

Have you checked the rocker cover gasket? Also if the oil has been changed recently, it is very easy to fill up the rocker cover and have oil dribbling down the side of the block!

[Shelby]

Hi Richard,
I did check the rocker gasket and all seems ok, it's definitely coming from between the head and block I've clean all round that area a number of times and it always starts from that corner, it's fine when idling it starts when I take her for little run round the corner but thanks very much for your suggestion.

Terry