right, i have decided it's an oil leak

[markthe45king]

after no apparent leaks for a while, madam has just left what i am assuming is a patch of oil under her. i make this assumption solely as the leak appears to form under the engine block, and the oil level is down on a week ago. So, where do i start looking? the manual suggests a number of gaskets, but what is the most logical starting point? the filter?

and don't be suggesting anything that involves too many tools as these are locked in my boot which is STILL locked shut if anyone has any bright ideas, or fancies trying to break into her (she's in Surbiton!).

with this and a missing cat, i am not having the best day.....

[chrisryder]

best place to start is with putting a piece of clean cardboard or paper under it. held down with bricks or something.

use this as a guide as to where the oil is coming from (above the puddle!).

this will also help to determine that is is oil, and not water.

engine oil (unless very recently changed) will leave a black mark, but if it's coming from the gearbox it'll look more like fresh oil (goldy treacle).

[dellerie]

surbiton eh? i'm 3 mles away. i'll take a look if you want. i'll get into your boot as well.

[MarkyB]

On the bottom of the clutch bell housing there is a large opened out split pin, does it have a large oil drip hanging off it?