Pulling a Universal M-25, 85' C-30

[Jeremy]

I have a serious oil leak in my M-25 diesel on my 1985 C-30. It won't hold any oil, appears to be a hole in the oil pan. I am considering doing the work myself although not to mechanically inclined. The engine has 950 hours on it, any other items I should address while its out?Also need advice on where to get parts or a shop in the S. Georgia-N. Florida area in case I get in over my head.

 

[Larry Watkins]

In over your head

Jeremy; Better think twice about that job. If you start, then decide you can't finish it, you'll have a hard time finding a mechanic/shop that will complete the job for you, and if they do agree to do it, they'll charge heavily for it. Try this. Wipe the bottom of the engine and drip pan, using a mirror to make sure you get all the old oil off the engine. Make sure the oil level is up to the mark, spread an oil-sorber sheet under it and run it till it comes up to operating temp, in forward gear, tied to the dock. Run it several minutes, shut it down and wait several minutes, then look for the leak with a flashlight and mirror if needed. It might be just a loose pan bolt, a bad crush washer on the drain, a leak at the filter, some easy fix. At 950 hours, the engine is barely broken in. Good luck. Larry

 

[Steve W.]

Universal Parts

Jeremy, Larry's idea of using a mirror and flashlight is a very good one. I would be very surprised if the pan has a hole in it. Ortega River Boat Yard in Jacksonville, Fl is the local Universal parts dealer. their number is 904-387-5538 and they sell well below suggested retail. Rodger McAloon seems to really know his stuff and they will drag a mechanic out of the shop to answer questions. Hope this helps.