BX Estate

[Warren Nel]

Question about this car that has a leak near the front from the return pipes.

The car does rise, but then the LHM all leaks out pretty fast.

It is owned by Jay Hughes who is selling it.

[Kaapelimies]

So what's the question?

[Warren Nel]

Well, what is the most likely cause?

[Jaba]

Return pipe leaks at the front are usually easy to fix and can be best found by inspection. Its most commonly the front strut return pipes but can be the safety valve return or the T just above the subframe on the LHS or of course the octopus. Run it with the suspension on low to eliminate suspension leaks.

[Warren Nel]

Thanks Jaba. How would you gain access to this area?

[rutter123]

Be aware, unless certain pipes have been replaced over time, you will undoubtedly be plagued with leaks bearing in mind most of the pipes will be 30 odd years old and corrosion of the hard lines and perishing of the rubber lines is highly likely.
As Jaba says recommend if poss to get it up on a ramp for a thorough inspection esp the pipes that are more exposed to the elements around the back axle.
Fuel lines are also prone to corrosion.
All pipes are easy enough to obtain but some can be sods to change if the fittings have corroded.

[Warren Nel]

Thanks Rutter123.

The car is a '94 L reg.

What you are saying is that it is best to be underneath the car to check it, or is there access from the wheel arch?

[womble3go]

All the leeks I had round the front wheels have been the front stut returns that can be done from the wheel arch, if you do one it wont be long before doing the other so do both at the same time.

All other leeks will be from underneath the car some are easy as said before others are pigs,, the worst I had so far is the power steering feed!

While you got front wheels off check over the front brake, handbrake cables and disc wear.
Kevin.

[Warren Nel]

I have decided not to buy him.

The money I had saved is needed for something more urgent.