Oil leak after engine shutdown

[timdog]

Here's an interesting question - does anyone experience an oil leak ONLY after engine shutdown?

It doesn't seem to leak oil when running, but as soon as I turn the engine off, I can hear oil begin to gurggle and drain back down into the pan. Then, a decent amount of oil begins to drip from the front (crankshaft) and rear main seals.

What's up with that? When the engine is running, does the oil pressure somehow force these seals to work better?

Everything else works well, but assuming I'll need to replace both seals...

 

[rbohm]

8) the seals are worn out number one, but more likely what is happening is that there is no outlet for crankcase pressure when the engine is shut down, and that pressure is forcing oil out past the seals. start by checking the pcv valve, and check the crankcase breather as well.

 

[chad]

things contract w/coolness (allowing loose prts 2 B looser)? Leaks easier w/wider cracks?
Pumps around while running, not running means droping down lower to the area where (crank) it can leak?