Options for a slow oil pan leak

[rfishi]

98 Explorer V8 5.0

I noticed what looked like a leak from the front corner of the oil pan. I tightened a single oil pan bolt an 1/8 turn or less, and about 10 minutes later I noticed the leak had gotten worse and dripped a drop onto the ground. I took this as confirmation that it is the oil pan gasket leaking, although it is visually hard to see the exact source of the leak; maybe it's coming from somewhere above the oil pan?
What's odd is that it hasn't dripped any more since this morning. I haven't turned the engine on yet today.

I really don't know if I have the time or resources to replace the gasket, so I was hoping to get some opinions on some alternative solutions I found. I admit neither of these options are ideal, and are a bit embarrassing to even bring up.

I heard of this spray sealant and watched some videos; you just spray it in multiple coats over the leaking area and it works its way in to seal it. It actually says it's for oil pans on the can.

My other idea (which I am very hesitant of) would be to use an oil leak stop. Leak stop products seem to have a bad name, but how bad of an idea is it to use one for oil? Does anyone have experience with any oil stop leak products/could recommend a brand? Or should I stay away from them completely and if so, why? Lucas or Blue Devil seemed like the most reputable brands.

 

[Turdle]

It could be you snugged the bolt good, and, some oil just squeezed out when tightened, then, dropped a bit later.
Did you go ahead and tighten all bolts? Work from center toward ends.

 

[rfishi]

It could be you snugged the bolt good, and, some oil just squeezed out when tightened, then, dropped a bit later.
Did you go ahead and tighten all bolts? Work from center toward ends.

I haven't tightened any other bolts yet. There are a couple bolts that are completely unreachable without emoving some large components which I don't have time or resources to do, which is the reason I am trying to avoid replacing the gasket. The bolt that I did tighten was already very tight, it wouldn't tighten more than a 1/16 tuen or so.

The leak does still appear to be present, I see more liquid that dribbled down, just not enough to have dropped onto the driveway yet.


I've been so stressed about this truck lately, it seems to be one thing after the next, I just wish this leak could get solved easily.

 

[DintDobbs]

If she's not leaking, she's probably empty...

Wait for opinions on the products before making a decision, but periodically check the oil level until you determine the best solution.

 

[rfishi]

It looks like there could be liquid dripping from above the oil pan, them down onto the pan, but I can't tell if it's just a stain from a previous leak. Everything is so crowded I can't see anything. I wish there was a reliable and safe leak stop I could use to fix this, because I can't for the life of me diagnose the leak. This has ruined my day! Please let me know if anyone can recommend a leak stop that actually works. I might try some fluorescent oil and a blacklight to pinpoint the leak, but IDK if that would even help since i can barely see anything under there.

What would be above the oil pan on the driver's side that would leak down onto it? The only thing I see is the water pump but I don't think it's that

 

[410Fortune]

Remove pan replace gasket
You cannot get the pan out and you cannot access the oil pump or pickup
But you can replace the gasket
Have to cut one corner of the new gasket in order to get it in place but permatex can keep that corner from leaking

This often requires removing if some parts off the engine loosening an engine mount plate and lifting the engine several inches

Lots of light and lots of patience
It is critical that the oil pan and engine block surfaces are properly prepped for the new gasket and it is impossible to see most of it so you are working g blind
But it can be re sealed in the vehicle

Otherwise just pull the engine and replace all gaskets

 

[C420sailor]

You can try AT-205. I’ve used it with fair results. My leak was a rear main seal though.

 

[rfishi]

Thank you everyone.

My plan is to put florescent dye/blacklight in the oil to pinpoint the leak, use engine degreaser to clean the area really good, use the spray sealant on the outside of the oil pan(may not work but seems risk free), then use AT-205, and watch carefully.

Some people say Blue Devil works better than AT-205 while others say it risks damaging stuff; anyone ever use blue devil?

If it leaks again or gets worse I will take 410fortunes advice on replacing the gasket.

This truck is all I have to support my family, and mechanics are totally out of budget, anything goes wrong it's always totally on me; so I apologize if I ever come off a bit crazy. I am very thankful for the help everyone here has provided me.