Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

[David W.]

I was told there is a product you can add to your oil to determine where an oil leak is originating. The product glows under a blacklight. Anyone familiar with this?

[Dick W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

There are several manufacturers of the dye that you are talking about. Go to any professional auto parts store and they should have the dye. You will also need a pair of yellow glasses to enhance the dye stains.

[David W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Thanks Dick. Does that mean I don't need a blacklight, just the yelloW glasses?

[Mike M.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Black light(Wood's Lamp) will work better. available at medical supply houses.where ya live? i got one i'll lend ya. mike

[Gary S.]

I bet I can find one

in my pile of old (really old) college stuff!

Gary
now, where is that Lava lamp?

[Dick W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

David, you also need the light. The glasses just enhance to dye, making it more visible.

[Bruce Amacker]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

And don't forget they're not cheap. A fluorescent tube style black light will not get the job done- you need a pro style bulb that focuses the rays in one area rather than spreading them over a large area. I've tried many off of the tool trucks and was never happy with the cheaper 12v or flashlight style lights. Mine was over $200 with a $100 replacement bulb. Try to borrow a good one from someone.

Good Luck!

[David W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Yikes. I thought I could use the same one that lit up my old Jimi Hendrix posters. I'm in northwest Ohio so if someone has one close by, I'd love to rent it. Thanks

[Rod Wagner #27060]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Most of the body shops that service air conditioners have them now. Give them a call and see if you can add the dye to your oil and drive it over to them. They could then "shine the light" for you for a nominal fee. I've done that a couple times tracing A/C problems. Beats buying your own light that you will only use oner or twice....

[Dick W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Bruce, of PSD fame??

[Bruce Amacker]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Yes, Do I know you, Dick?

[John H.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Wiping the area down well and sprinkling baby powder on it will also pinpoint the leak source quickly - and at less cost.

[David W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Thanks for all the great advice/ideas. I'll try them all.

I'm getting a leak on the top side of the engine towards the rear. At least I assume so as it's dripping down onto the bell housing. One NCRS expert thought it was either from the distributor or the intake manifold. Definitely not the valve covers. I suppose the distributor seal is an easier place to start but I've never replaced one. I'll look it up in the AIM but am I safe to assume that's a rather painless job?

[Dick W.]

Re: Blacklight Oil Leak Detection

Bruce, I read your posts in the HD section of the IATN board. I own a PSD or two amongst other engines. There is life beyond Chevrolet engine orange (I think)

Good to see you post here. Your mechanical knowledge will be greatly appreciated.