Three Leaking Oil Separators
 

We have three turbo diesels in my family. All three have "leaky" oil separators which result in a mess in the air filter housings. The top plate on the oil separator appears to be held on by two bent tabs which do not hold it too tightly. I can easily wiggle the top plate on the separators

Is there anything that can be done to better seal the oil separator? I hesitate to do too much with the metal tabs for fear of either breaking the plastic top or the metal tabs.

My answer was to relocat the Air Filter (see post #2 form a link to my thread)
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/286816-those-who-have-added-air-oil-seperator-post2568507.html#post2568507

In one of the threads a Member spoke of sealing the top of the separator with Silicone and he claimed that it worked for him.
I believe that works to keep any Oil that is already liquid at that point inside of the Breather.

But, because there has to be some way for the Blow-by to get out that means if yo have enough Blow-by Oil Vapor is still going to get out and that Oil is going to condense and turn back to liquid somewhere.

If you managed to seal it off that would close the system and your Engine is going to stall because the Crankcase Pressure will push your Vacuum Shutoff Diaphragm in the shutoff direction.

I have also read of some Members who had clogged Breathers or the Tubing.

arrrgh.
you don't seal the entire contraption, just the lid! the tube that extends into the intake plenum and the tube that drain the condensed oil into the oil pan still are very open. no issues with stalling the engine.
I'll post pics when I get a chance.
no oil in my air filter, or on the ground.

X2. That's what I did based on an old thread. Worked for me. I did bend the tabs up and remove the lid (I was curious what was inside). Cleaned all the parts and sealed it when I put it back together. I don't remember for sure, but I think I used polyurethane instead of silicone. Whatever I picked, I did so based on the product's oil and heat resistance.