7 replies to this topic

[m4s73rs]

Underneath the mini replacing a broken speedo cable, and figured I'd clean up while I was down there.
Found the cotter pin shown in the picture hanging out of the bottom of what I'd call the 'bell housing', I'm not real familiar with the engine/trans parts yet. RHD Driver's Side.
It will spin all around with no resistance. Any ideas why it's there? Any thoughts on removing or ignoring? TIA
 CotterPin.jpg   225.87K   23 downloads

[glyn]

it is a drain hole for unwanted oil out of the clutch housing if i remember correctly. just leave it in place as it rattles round and keeps the hole free from dirt.

[TimmyG]

Always wondered what that was too! The only reason i can think of is that it moves around a bit as the car is moving, preventing a build up of clutch dust thus maintaining an exit for any leaking oil to come out rather than get trapped in the casing and ruin the clutch?! I'm sure someone will be along soon with a definate answer though! Either way don't worry about it being loose, i'ts never been connected to anything in my experience, It's just been a split pin through a hole.

[Cooperman]

Would you believe it's correctly called a 'Jiggle Pin'.

[L400RAS]

Hi m4s73rs,

No one has mentioned that this area does look a little damp with oil, perhaps keep an eye on this area - oil from here indicates the primary oil seal is on its way out, thus needing the clutch and flywheel to be removed to rectify it. Perhaps more worrying would be the cause of this - the seal does wear out eventually, but oil leaks can be accelerated by excessive crank case pressure, ie worn piston rings...

Ryan.

Edited by L400RAS, 16 October 2009 - 04:58 PM.

[m4s73rs]

Thanks all! Glad I didn't give in to my initial impulse and yank it out!

L400RAS
I'm having an inspection done this weekend and will be sure to ask about this - Thanks!

[Hughes]

the seal does wear out eventually, but oil leaks can be accelerated by excessive crank case pressure

Would over filling the oil cause this?

[L400RAS]

the seal does wear out eventually, but oil leaks can be accelerated by excessive crank case pressure

Would over filling the oil cause this?

Seriously doubt it. The only way it can be coming out of this hole is through the primary oil seal, which is a LOT higher than the sump. The seal must be leaking for this to happen.
Ryan