1995 Cummins Major oil leak
 

I have a 1995 Ram 3500 with the Cummins diesel, 5-speed manual, 2wd dually flatbed with +/- 297,000 miles. I parked it about a week ago, and when I went out to start it I saw a puddle of oil under the truck, up front, about 6-8" in diameter. Checked the oil level, it was about a quart low. added oil, started it up, and after running for a few minutes there was oil dripping from the tie rod going across the front. I did some looking around, and as near as I can tell, it is coming from up on the drivers side of the block, fairly high up (about the same height as the injection pump, maybe a little higher?) it's hard to see, but it sure is leaking like mad there. I replaced the front main seal (with a redi-sleeve) about six months ago and had no leaks until now, i can't tell what is leaking up here. Is there anything in this area that is known to start leaking on these engines?

If you look behind the pump at the block there is an inspection plate held on by 5 or 6 bolts with a rubber gasket all the way around it. it runs from the front to the back of the motor, right under the head. push rod inspection plate? im not positive what exactly the point of it was but im guessing that is probably your leak. It is possible to do without pulling the pump, but pulling it makes it much easier.