1997 Oldsmobile 88 - Oil Filter Housing Cracked

1997 OLDSMOBILE 88
48,000 MILES • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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THESULLYMAN
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Hello,

I recently took a road trip and along the way Murphy's Law kicked in. After a new coil, plugs and wires I was not receiving any codes ( I was told by mechanic friend I was experiencing a mis-fire and after a stop at advanced auto and a scan, the suggestion was confirmed) got back on the road and the engine was still making a "putting sound" after a Groupon funded trip to Jiffy lube I got an oil change and during the service I was told I would not receive a warranty because the oil filter housing was cracked.

Now I'm not sure what is cracked, the actual housing or the gasket. I cannot find the part (to purchase) and I'd need to know how to go about replacing either part. Your advice is greatly appreciated!
Dec 8, 2013 at 11:54 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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What size engine do you have? I have to be honest, I don't ever recall a housing on these vehicles.
Dec 9, 2013 at 5:26 AM
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THESULLYMAN
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I believe the car is a 3.8L
Dec 9, 2013 at 2:58 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Is the filter right on the front of the motor near the starter? If so, it bolts right to the engine. Is it possible for you to take a pic and upload it for me to see?
Dec 9, 2013 at 4:50 PM
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THESULLYMAN
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Pictures
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Dec 10, 2013 at 8:01 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I'm at work right now and can't open the pics here. I will look at them when I get home.
Dec 10, 2013 at 8:26 AM
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THESULLYMAN
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And chance at a reply?
Dec 12, 2013 at 9:23 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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After looking at the pics, I can't see anything that is cracked. Is there a leak?
Dec 12, 2013 at 6:34 PM
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THESULLYMAN
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I said the same thing to myself. There is a leak some where just not sure where. The oil pressure gauge is on, along with check engine. Looking at the housing I see no oil really anywhere near the gasket or a crack. ??
Dec 12, 2013 at 6:53 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Since the oil light is on, have you checked the oil sending unit. Often times, when they go bad, they will leak oil and set the light to come on. As far as the housing, I see nothing out of the ordinary.
Dec 12, 2013 at 7:31 PM
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THESULLYMAN
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Yes, there must be. The oil pressure light and check engine are on. Along with the oil being so low (5 quarts seemed to disappear in 2 days). I don't seem really any oil on the housing itself or near the gasket. Nor do I see a crack myself. any suggestions?
Dec 12, 2013 at 7:36 PM
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THESULLYMAN
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Sorry replied because I thought I didn't hit submit....

would you be able to offer any diagram/s to show me locations of specific sections or parts that could be at fault.

I do know that the oil that seems to run off is coming from the location seemly under the oil filter housing.... could it be the oil pressure sensor coming out of the housing?
Dec 12, 2013 at 7:41 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The oil pressure switch is on the passenger side, lower engine area, above oil filter, mounted in the engine block.
Dec 13, 2013 at 8:33 AM
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THESULLYMAN
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I went ahead and replaced the oil sender. Worked like a charm (for now lol)

Thank you!

Best Regards,
John
Dec 13, 2013 at 3:06 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Great! I'm glad you got it fixed. Let me know if you have other questions.
Dec 13, 2013 at 6:49 PM