Ok for those who do not know I purchased a 1977 280Z that had been sitting for 4+ years. The car fired right up with a new battery so I had it towed to my house to begin what I thought was going to be a simple refresh-update to become a daily driver. I paid way too much for the car but they are so hard to find and the body was in such good condition I impulsively gave the PO 3 grand for it. (he saw me coming and stuck me hard)

I have put another $500 into it. I drained the tank installed new filters, wire's, plugs, alternator, battery, vol regulator and front and rear brakes (new calipers and wheel cylinders). I have been working on a EFI issue (blows black smoke every now and then) and am seriously thinking of switching to a carb but that is another thread in itself.

My main problem now is that I changed the oil last weekend and I have developed a persistent leak that I can not track down. I know its not the drain plug or the oil filter and I am really afraid one of the main seals is gone. Now I am looking at a rebuild. What kind of money can I expect to spend on a complete top and bottom rebuild. My goal would be to use as many parts as I can and only replace what I absolutely have too. I have never rebuilt an engine before but I can follow directions well and I know the basic principals. Thanks for all the help.

P.S. Its for Sale :stupid:

280Z on its way to becoming someone's daily driver (I hope)

A main seal is no reason for a total rebuild, assuming that one of them is really your problem. They can be replaced without doing a total tear-down.

If the leak developed suddenly after the oil change I'd be looking a bit deeper for the true cause before opening my wallet.

Here's a thought - have you checked the PCV valve? Is there excessive pressure inside the crankcase?

I agree with Arne. Before assuming the worst I'd clean the engine up using a de-greaser or take it to the local coin operated car wash. After running the engine a bit the source of the leak should become more obvious. It could be something simple like the oil pan gasket.

Thanks for the advice guys. I am going to do a complete engine and under carriage cleaning this weekend. I hope it is something simply like a gasket or PVC value. Will keep you posted.

280Z on its way to becoming a daily driver....