Slow oil leak

[shchuka]

So, I've had this oil leak for some time now.  I never investigate it in details, as it was quite minor.  I never needed to top up oil in any serious amounts.  Then, last week, I got an advisory on an MOT that stated "oil leak".  I started looking all around again - and, I think, I can see a place right at the bottom of the oil filter cap where a drop of oil is hanging, ready to fall and a small wet spot on my driveway (right below that oil filter cover).  I have had the bike on the centre stand for a day after doing some other work, so it's unlikely that the oil got there from another place.

I've read in several threads that I should replace the o-ring cover gasket, which I'll do as soon as I get the part.  Now, there's visible amount of oil pretty much all over the engine now (especially lower parts).  I wonder, what's the best way to clean up that oil?  I don't want to use any abrasives on the engine, obviosuly.  I did use white spirit before in small amounts to clean up the goo inside the front sprocket cover  and it worked ok.  But not sure about larger amounts.

As always, many thanks!

[Porkchop]

I use 409 for minor clean up on the outside of the engine.  If the oil is covering a large portion of the engine, consider washing it down with car wash soap.  Detail the rest of the bike while you are at it.

-Porkchop

[sledge]

You need an Engine-degreaser.

Take your pick,

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/categorydisplay_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_categoryId_165713_langId_-1

I prefer the trigger-bottle types but they all perform pretty much the same. Spray it on, work it in with a paintbrush if needed, leave if for a few minutes then rinse off 

409 might be the same sort of stuff but I cant say I have ever seen it on sale in the UK.

[shchuka]

Thanks guys.  The oil filter surgery is planned for tomorrow.  I'll clean her up over the weekend.  Next week will see if there's more leaking elsewhere.