1999 Response oil leak

[sniper]

Ive got a bad oil leak on my 99 Response. It appears to be on the side of the engine with the pull start. I cant find the leak and before I start to pull the engine is there any common problem I should look for ? PLEASE HELP !!!!!!
Thanks
Bob

[msafi65]

Sounds like crank seal behind the flywheel is leaking. Usually caused from the case bushing worn and allowing the crankshaft to move. Pull the shroud and see if there is any play in the flywheel. The bushing is replaceable but it's almost the last part that comes out of the engine.

[sniper]

Thanks. Does the engine need to get pulled out for that ?

[msafi65]

You can check for wear with only pulling the shroud. You shouldn't really be able to feel up and down play at crank. (1-2) thousandth is good. I believe the flywheel can be pulled and seal replaced in the vehicle buy much easier with it out. If bushing is loose the engine has to be completly disassembled.