Topic: Porous oil filter housing?

[Scott S]

 I have the smallest oil leak around the oil filter housing on my CB500/550 build. But when I wipe my finger across the bolt or where the housing meets the engine case, it seems dry. I had that housing vapor blasted. Is it possible that the oil is actually leaking THROUGH the housing?
 I installed new O-rings and even an NOS bolt. It really seems like the oil is coming from the middle of the housing, between some fins.

 I have some other O-rings and other housings (but with bent or broken fins). I'm trying to get a few more miles on this oil before changing it.

[Stev-o]

I doubt its porous enough to leak but could have a crack?

[flatlander]

i also think a crack would be more likely than it being porous. maybe it was dropped ones and has a hair fissure that's barely visible.
maybe the baby powder trick would work to locate the source?

[Bodi]

Put one of your different cases on for now... you only lose about a cup of oil.

[Scott S]

 It's weird, it only seems to leak when the engine is cool. Didn't leak a drop when it was hot, and not for about 24 hours....then another couple of drips.

 Maybe I'll swap it out and install a new O-ring when the one Cal is sending gets here.

[seanbarney41]

You sure its not dripping onto the filter housing from somewhere higher up?

[Scott S]

 No, I'm not sure. The filter housing is dry on top, though. Dry on the front around the bolt (used a NOS Honda bolt.... I opened the package myself). Dry where the filter housing meets the engine case....though the last time I checked there was maybe... *maybe*.... a little moisture there. I don't even see oil "hanging" on the filter housing. It's just wet to the touch or when I stuff a folded shop towel between the fins, and there's a drop or two on the ground, directly below the filter housing. Not at the end, not at the case. Right below the housing.