Oil pooling on intake manifold

[Terry B.]

The last few times that I've driven my 340 hp 327 I've noticed that oil pools around one of the bolts securing the intake manifold (the third from the front on the drivers side), I'd guess that it leaks an eye drop worth after a three mile drive. This is a bowtie car so removing anything for diagnostic purposes probably can't happen. Any guesses as to the cause will be appreciated. Any cautionary warnings, like do not drive it under any circumstances or it will surely blow up, will also be appreciated.

[Edward J.]

Re: Oil pooling on intake manifold

Terry, The middle 2 bolts on each side of intake are drilled through and into the engine block, so what happens is crankcase pressure lets oil migrate up those bolts. generally those bolts can be removed a sealer applied to the threads. but not sure what this means to a bowtie car if it has not been judged??

[Patrick H.]

Re: Oil pooling on intake manifold

This is extremely common on Chevrolet small blocks.

My preferred method is to remove the bolt, clean the threads, and then apply ARP thread sealant to the threads before reinstalling.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/arp-100-9904

Some people use Permatex For-A-Gasket #2, but the ARP is good to 550 degrees vs 400, and given the heat of the engine I've not had leaks with the ARP but I did with Permatex.
This is an easy, undetectable, Bowtie-approved repair.