Engine Stop Leak - To use or not to use?

[sk2304]

Found out a bloke I deal with through work was a mechanic up until a year or 2 ago. Talking about cars etc when subject got on the notorious real main for the ecotec commodores.

Mine has 1 drop of oil every 3-4 days on the tray in the garage. He said put in a can of engine stop leak. A good brand though like nulon. I not really into those stop leak products for any part of the car. But he said it softens the gaskets in the engine as they go hard over time, and that stuff will not harm an engine.

Any thoughts?

 

[hako]

I'd say the bloke concerned is correct - it will swell seals and stop or reduce leaks. I've never seen it harm an engine /trans/power steering etc. The other option is to renew or recondition the component....engine $3000...trans $2000...power steering...$600. A can of stop leak or stop slip cost about $20 for a good brand. No question to me which is the better choice.
Good Luck