Oh heck..........!!!!

[FELIX_5]

Recently the oil pressure gauge seemed to drop, particularly at idle.

Thought I'd better check the oil level, wiped the dipstick clean, put back in, pulled out and barely a drop!!!! The dipstick was virtually bone dry.

I last checked the oil about 3 weeks ago and it was to the top of the dipstick and a nice clear honey colour as it had an oil change a few months ago.

Its only used as a second/weekend car so hasn't done that many miles so has used or burned quite a bit of oil in that space.

I can't see any obvious oil drips or marks on the floor, had a nosey under the bonnet and the undertray does look a bit 'wet' from oil. Question is before I have chance to put it on a ramp, are there any common/obvious problems these suffer from, any seal which are common to perish or is it an 'internal' problem rather than a leak.

I appreciate its difficult to say without seeing it, but a heads up on likely causes would be really appreciated. Its a 1990 1.6 btw.

Thanks in advance from one slightly concerned owner......

[pmanson]

CAS 'O' ring and/or the cam cover gasket are the first one's to check.

I've got a spare CAS 'O' ring if you need one quickly

[FELIX_5]

pmanson said:

CAS 'O' ring and/or the cam cover gasket are the first one's to check.

I've got a spare CAS 'O' ring if you need one quickly

Thanks for that mate. Will get it up on a ramp this week and investigate, hopefully its nothing too serious.......

[MX-5 Lazza]

Or if it's been fine up until the oil change then check that the drain plug and oil filter are fitted securely and aren't leaking.

[pmanson]

MX-5 Lazza said:

Or if it's been fine up until the oil change then check that the drain plug and oil filter are fitted securely and aren't leaking.

My leak was from the drain plug washer....

[FELIX_5]

Yeah all good shouts, once I get it on a ramp, hopefully I will be able to spot the leak. (I'm hoping it is a leak and not something more serious internally)

[pmanson]

Popped into the post office at lunchtime - it's on it's way

[FELIX_5]

pmanson said:

Popped into the post office at lunchtime - it's on it's way

You are a true gentleman!! Thank you VERY much!!