Oil on fan belt

Joanne32

Have noticed a black line in the engine bay in line with the fan belt ? 

Black_Diamond

More likely the belt is breaking down and slings off the belt particles.  Some of this is perfectly normal.  Twist the belt and look at the underside where the little v's are and look for cracking, pieces missing, etc.  These are all signs of the belt is at the end of its life and should be replaced.

If the belt looks good, start looking at all the pieces driven by the belt, especially the tensioner as eventually the bearings go out.  

Here is a nice link for visuals:

http://www.partinfo.co.uk/files/70407_E2_MICRO-V XF TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.pdf

Joanne32

Thank you had a full service just a month ago ! But have just crossed English Channel 100 miles in one day at about 20 knots so may be the bearings ? 

Black_Diamond

Was the belt just replaced?  Improper tension will wear a belt quickly. Looking at the belt running face will tell you a lot. Don't apply 'belt dressing' stuff, not good stuff and it will sling off and leave a trail too. 

If it is just a light dust trail, can just be normal belt stuff too. 

212rowboat

Where is your drive lube reservoir located? Above belt at one o'clock?  100miles is gonna warm up a drive, and it will vent... Check drive lube level. 

Lifes Good

If you have a volvo penta engine double check your raw water pump.  When the bearing starts to go due to water intrusion it drips rust greasy water on to the belt flinging it in a line circle which can be seen as a strip on the engine hatch.