Liquid forming under Nosewheel on C152.

[FlyingSportsman]

A Friend (or flying legend as he is known in the business :E) noticed in a few pictures a small patch of liquid forming under the nosewheel of the mighty 152 shortly after engine shutdown. Suggested oil condesation as it apparently smelt like oil, but was clear. Had a quick peek in the POH but didn't find anything written,

any thoughts?

FS :ok:

[NutLoose]

As suggested, the engine breather is on the left fwd side of the engine and routes to the left side of the firewall just outboard of the port steering rod, it will drip condensation around the area of the aft side of the nose tyre on the port side.

Incidentally one reason why you should not tighten the dipstick up with the force of a gorilla to stop oil leaking out of it is the actual crankcase breather is lower than the dipstick in height and open to atmosphere, over tightening the dipstick can loosen the tube or crack it at the bottom where it can leak.

[Pilot DAR]

It could be engine oil (which ranges from golden to black, depending on how "appreciated" it has been).

If actually on or under the tire, possibly hydraulic oil from the oleo. That would be red, though could appear clear compared to engine oil. Look on the chrome part of the oleo strut, is it wet at all?

If the oelo is leaking, a servicing is required which is very common after years in service. The servicer must be compotent, or expensive damage can be done taking it apart. Do not operate the plane with low fluid, a simple but effective metering system depends upon the right amount of oil to properly absorb the shocks.

If not that, could also be the shimmy damper. Again, do not fly, if it has leaked down. Look for wet on it's chrome shaft...