oil leak

[pops13]

I have a 2001 3.0 auto with 117k on it, now I have noticed a small leak, it drips usually 1 drop overnight. I see oil on the bell housing not all over the place just like 1 drop hanging there. I"m thinking maybe the rear main or pan gasket? are these motors known to have common spots where they leak? I don"t want to pull the trans if I don"t have to, thanks

 

[Rearanger]

Are you sure it's engine oil? Could be leaking clutch fluid, check clutch fluid level. I'd also look higher up to make sure it's not valve cover or oil pressure switch.

 

[cbxer55]

Are you sure it's engine oil? Could be leaking clutch fluid, check clutch fluid level. I'd also look higher up to make sure it's not valve cover or oil pressure switch.

Reading comprehension my friend, is everything.
HE SAID IT IS AN AUTOMATIC. No clutch fluid.

Yes, mine leaks a bit too. I find it helps if you leave the oil level approximately halfway between the full and the low mark. And park on level ground all of the time. A Valvoline oil guy told me it was the rear main seal. I said, OH YEAH, why does it only leak when parked, it does not leak when running. He had no answer.

 

[pops13]

re

no clutch, auto, yes it"s oil.

 

[ForOffRoadDriving]

as stated above, check around the valve covers and th oil pressure switch for any oil. when ever i have a leak i add a uv die (available at most part stores, sometimes in a kit with the glasses and the flashlight for around $40.00-$50.00) and then run it for 10min to make sure the oil has circulated and then i wait for it to get dark outside. then ill lay on my creeper and follow the brightly colored oil leak back to its source. this may be a little more of an initial purchase than youre lookin got make, but its saved me lots of head scratching multiple times and they make different dies for lubricants and coolants.
http://qualitytoolsforless.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=2723
http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/tratp39000601.html

 

[TomB1269]

I would also say try tightening the oil pan bolts. Do not try and torque them, a small ratchet and light pressure to snug any that may be loose. Also try and get a good look at the oil filter seat next time, old gasket, nick, etc will cause that type of leak.