Quick Question.
I just bought an '86 GXL w/ 116k mi and it runs really strong. I have not done anything to it except interior work, because she is parked for the winter in my garage. I was doing my weekly start-up and letting her warm-up, but it was a nice day so I took her out. I ran her fairly hard on some country roads and she ran great. I get home and I smell a fairly strong odor of burning oil. There is a small amount of oil on the garage floor, but nothing major. Well, then I notice a small amount of white smoke (very light) coming up through the shifter (I removed almost all my interior for a deep cleaning).
1. Is there usually an odor of burning oil from rotary engines?
2. Why would there be oil burning underneath the shiter?
3. I want to degrease the engine bay and undercarriage to find this leak. Other than covering the dist., disconecting battery, is there anything else I need to worry about getting wet?
Thanks
JP

 

Right under the shifter is the tranny rear oil seal.
If it's leaking, the front U-joint will sling it
On jackstands, drop the cat & Y-pipe, drop the drive shaft & replace the seal.

It's (6)

 

Thanks SureShot! I will start there and work my way back up into the engine bay. I am sure there is more than just one leak. I can't be that lucky.