For KV6 - Is this an oil leak or excess run-off from the crankcase ventilation?

[MartinW]

Oil and rubber do not make good bedfellows so yes, I would inspect closely!

I have had a PiperX cone in my bay so now have plenty of room for the catch tank but will check mine, anyway. It probably needs the carb-cleaner treatment again, starting to feel a little slug-like below 2000rpm!

[Lates]

Simon, apologies I did pick up your mail with the intentions or getting back to it later when time allows.
I would opt for a good clean up and observe for a few weeks. The amount on the belly pan was not signifcant enough to cause any concerns.Yes a small spoldge was there but bear in mind when was it last cleaned and the age of the vehicle could me a minor storm in a tea cup.

[Simon]

No problems with the late reply

I'll keep an eye on it as you say, given the fact its now bloomin' dark when I leave work it'll have to wait until a day off in the week for me to have a good look. I've got to drive to East Midlands airport at the nice and early time of 7am on Thursday () so I'll have a good look at what's what after that journey.

Car is running nice and smooth since it's service. Can't report anything untoward regarding that unknown knocking sensation through the column so hopefully it's just me feeling the harder suspension

Must admit thought the steering does seem a tad lighter than normal after it's service - so either the new oil has helped in some way or my biceps have suddenly developed!!

[Lates]

My left bicep is developing quite nicely

[Simon]

Originally Posted by Lates

My left bicep is developing quite nicely

Swap hands.

[Departed]

Originally Posted by MartinW

Is this not part of the starter solenoid in which case, a direct passage to the clutch housing and flywheel?

It's the starter motor, and as you say, lives in the bell housing. If any engine oil leaks from the rear crank seal, and is thrown by the flywheel, it would show here.

I have a little oil in the same place on my KV6 but no big oil losses.

If on the otherhand, there is some sort of way that the clutch slave may be peeing some fluid out and by some miracle, finding ots way out onto the starter body, you need to check - if this is brake fluid it will strip paint.

From the colour, it's engine oil. Nothing else picks up carbon the same way.