oil leak

[planetman]

hi i have just purchased a ford galaxy zetec 1.9 tdi i new it had an oil leak before i got it and was hoping it was going to be an easy fix ? the engine was covered in oil from top to bottom any way i noticed that the sump plug was leaking so i tried to tighten it up but was still leaking slightly i then changed the oil and put a new plug in and fingers x it seemed to have worked if it starts to leak again is there any suggestions  as to what i could do ? there was a funny looking thing comming out of where you fill the oil on the top it looks like oil had been comming out of it and covering the engine (at least it wont rust) has anyone else had this problem ? i have taken it off and just put filler cap directly on.   

[Mirez]

 There is a crush washer on the plug that makes the seal so the sump plug should be renewed ideally every change, although it practice every few is good enough. Don't overtighten though! Remember the sump is aluminium so the thread can be easily stripped!

The filler has a swan neck extension piece to make filling easier, there are seals on this which can be changed but it's only purpose is as an aid so if you are happy without it then it won't cause any problems.