Strange Oil Leak problem

[jadus]

I have an oil leak on my 1992 Explorer.

I suspect its the oil adapter O-ring. I've cleaned everything off, and it seems to almost spray oil in front of the filter, onto the side of the engine block. Nothing is leaking from the valve covers, or anywhere else that I can see..

I've read the thread on replacing that, but heres the catch

When driving, I can smell oil burning sometimes. Its only when I'm driving freeway speeds, and ONLY when Im driving downhill.

My wife was following me the other day and said everytime we went downhill I was blowing oil smoke.

I don't lose a lot of oil, about a quart every 3 weeks.

Before I replace the O-ring, anyone have any idea why it does this going downhill? Oil pan gasket? Main Seals?

Thanks.

Dave

 

[Roadrunner777]

Going downhill somehow makes the leak drip/migrate to the outside of an exhaust pipe, where it burns off and makes smoke.