New member, first post. I’m a noob and not knowledgeable about engines so if you’re triggered by noobs back slowly away from my post!
I have a 2002 short school bus, 5 window with the Ford 7.3L PowerStroke. Bought it in August to convert. I had an electrical/battery issue that took a while to sort out but finally got it started this afternoon. I just drove around the parking lot for a couple minutes then moved her to a different spot. Got out and found all kinds of oil under where the engine was when it started, then where it sat for a minute before I moved it. I checked the oil and there’s nada.
Is there any remote circumstance where I shouldn’t be really freaked out?
I need to be able to move it around the parking lot from here on so this is urgent.
I was told that the oil pan is a ***** with this engine and really costly to replace. Is this true?
Can I turn the engine on at all like this? Like just to move it?
Lastly, does anyone have any recommendations for a good, honest diesel mechanic near Hamilton, Ontario, Canada? (Between Buffalo NY and Toronto.)
Thanks in advance for any help.

 

I like your introduction, Sam.

First, do not start your engine until you add oil. If the engine isn't already trashed, it will be with a very short run without oil. Did the engine make any odd noise? Any knocking? Did you look at the engine to see where the oil came from? Can you spray down the engine to get a better look for the leak source? (I think you can use a brake cleaning spray can, read the cautions on the can) I'm not sure what you were talking about with your comment about the oil pan so please elaborate.

After filling with the appropriate oil, take a look and see if any of it is pouring out somewhere. If not pouring out, start the engine and see if you have any oil pressure (thinking you might have an oil pressure gauge on the dash). If you have oil pressure, go to the engine and see where the oil is spilling out. It could be a loose oil filter at best, or an after-market inspection port on the side of the block (very expensive to fix). If you have no oil pressure, shut the engine off and find your local mechanic.

As for the oil on the ground, go to the store and pick up some kitty litter. Spread it over the spills and use a broom to push it around to soak up the oil, then bag it and dispose.

And lastly, this is a forum mostly dedicated to Cummins engines found in Dodge and RAM pickup trucks. Glad you reached out though, let us know what you found.
Back to morning brew . . .

 

Sam,
nothing to it, check if the oil is running off rhe bellhousing. If it is, look on top of the engine, in the valley, you should see some stainless braided lines. These run from the hpop to the hpo rails in the heads.
These lines have o rings on each end, which are prone to blowing out, and leaking just as you have described. Not difficult to replace them, just a little time consuming.
these engines will shut themselves off for low oil pressure before they actually hurt themselves, unless someone has done something they shouldn’t have with the control system.

good luck with it