Repair Guide: 1968 Porsche 911 Targa - Oil Leak Problem

Repair Guide: 1968 Porsche 911 Targa - Oil Leak Problem

Repair Guide: 1968 Porsche 911 Targa - Oil Leak Problem

Introduction

This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to identify and repair an oil leak in a 1968 Porsche 911 Targa. Many classic Porsche owners have reported experiencing oil leaks, mainly due to worn seals and gaskets. Below is a detailed walkthrough on diagnosing the problem and conducting a successful repair.

Tools Needed

Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing an oil leak is to identify the source. Using diesel fuel or an engine degreaser, clean the entire engine, including the underside, to remove all old oil. Once the engine is clean, start the engine and allow it to warm up to operating temperature. Observe any fresh oil that appears on the engine or undercarriage.

If the leak's origin isn’t obvious, use an oil leak dye test kit. Follow the instructions to add the dye to the oil and run the vehicle. After running the vehicle for the directed time with the dye in the system, use the special UV light to identify the source of the oil leak.

Repair

Once the source is identified, the next step is a repair. Most 911 leaks can be attributed to faulty valve cover gaskets. To replace these, follow these instructions:

  1. Drain any excess oil from the engine to prevent spillage during the repair process.
  2. Unbolt the faulty valve cover. This should be done gradually, in a cross pattern to ensure pressure is evenly dispersed and prevents warping the cover.
  3. Once removed, thoroughly clean the valve cover and engine block surface, ensuring remnants of the previous gasket are completely removed.
  4. Install the new gasket on the cleaned valve cover, making sure it fits into the grooves perfectly.
  5. Bolt the valve cover back onto the engine block. Gradually tighten the bolts in a cross pattern to evenly distribute pressure.
  6. Refill the engine with oil and start the engine to check there's no leak.

Conclusion

Fixing oil leaks in a vintage Porsche 911 Targa isn’t an overly complicated task but precision is key. Make sure to evenly bolt down the valve cover to prevent warping, and double-check that the new gasket has been installed correctly. Regularly check for oil leaks to maintain the health of the engine.