Ford Popular Oil Leak – A Hidden Engine Issue

When a classic car starts losing excessive oil, it’s never a good sign. This Ford Popular upright came into the workshop with a significant oil leak from the rear of the engine, and the owner—now in his eighties—was understandably concerned. After only 1,000 miles since its last rebuild, something clearly wasn’t right.

Step 1: Finding the Source of the Leak

The first step was to remove the engine sump and inspect the oil seal. Surprisingly, the seal itself looked fine, which meant the problem lay deeper. I then removed the rear main crankshaft cap, and that’s when the real issue became clear.

Step 2: A Nasty Surprise

The crankshaft journal showed excessive corrosion, and even worse, the bearing itself was deteriorating badly. This was a real shame—especially since the engine had supposedly been rebuilt not long ago. However, time is just as much an enemy as mileage for classic engines, and after four years of limited use, this one had suffered the consequences.

Step 3: A Tough Decision

With confidence in the car fading, the owner made the difficult choice to sell. The Ford Popular was immaculate in every other way, and rather than invest in another engine rebuild, he wanted to pass it on to someone willing to take on the work. A tough call, but one that would ensure the car went to a new owner who could give it the attention it needed.

The Takeaway

This case highlights the importance of regular engine use and maintenance—even low mileage and a recent rebuild aren’t always guarantees of longevity. If you’re storing a classic car, it’s essential to run the engine periodically to prevent internal corrosion. Got a classic with a persistent oil leak? It might be time for a deeper look under the hood!

Need help keeping your classic in top shape? Get in touch and let’s make sure it stays on the road where it belongs!