Burning smell?

[thor999]

(2001 SR5 4x4 auto) OK so I have a scan gauge 2, temps seem normal (max 199 coolant, max 190 TFT), bypassed rad with B&M cooler, rad fluid looks right, trans fluid looks right, no fluids leaking or showing signs of loss... yet just about every time I get out of my Runner after driving it I smell something burning, from under the hood? No smoke, no noises, can't put my finger on it, as in is it oil, plastic or trans fluid, but something doesn't seem right... I haven't made any changes recently, I perform regular oil changes, have not sprayed any cleaner or anything on the motor, does anyone have any ideas? Sorry, I know, it sounds dumb, and maybe even paranoiac... I DO make a 10 mile trip up and downhill (foothills Colorado) to go to work everyday and disable OD, would that be an issue? Again, trans fluid looks clean and red, and the temp never exceeds 200... not sure if this occurs while in 4wd fwiw

 

[4x4runner2002]

check your valve cover gaskets. if they are leaking, then oil will get on the exhaust and you will smell burning.

 

[thor999]

OK I just noticed oil level has decreased somewhat after a recent oil change. Should I clean and degrease the engine, wipe around below the valve covers, and routinely inspect for leakage? What course of action would you take? Sounds like the culprit!
edit: nvm I am just going to replace the gaskets, at 169,xxx miles seems like a needed maintenance action at least. Researching the job and materials now, but if anyone is bored and would like to link me to their info I would appreciate it!

 

[thor999]

OK here is what I found so far, but seems the consensus is to first tighten the bolts (using a torque wrench and recommended torque) http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/91765-valve-cover-gasket.html and http://www.yotatech.com/f2/5vzfe-leaky-valve-covers-fixed-56k-beware-149594/

 

[BlackCat914]

Did you run over a plastic bag?

 

[jgue467]

Yup may take weeks/months before all the oil finishes burning off (even if you clean first) but it will, mine have stayed tight about 4 yrs now, may require annual re-snugging. Luck!

 

[sterbenlicht]

OK here is what I found so far, but seems the consensus is to first tighten the bolts (using a torque wrench and recommended torque) http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/91765-valve-cover-gasket.html and 5vzfe leaky valve covers fixed (56k beware) - YotaTech Forums

While the valve cover gaskets do commonly leak, and tightening the bolts might help, those cam bore seals and tube seals for the spark plugs leak all the time. Replacing the valve cover gaskets, cam bore seals, tube seals, and grommets/washers for the valve cover bolts wouldn't be a bad idea. Don't fix it if it ain't broke though, so make sure you have a leak first.

 

[pluton]

Excess grease being thrown off the prop shafts onto the exhaust can give your car that "Hot-GM car-from-the 1970s" smell.

 

[thor999]

Excess grease being thrown off the prop shafts onto the exhaust can give your car that "Hot-GM car-from-the 1970s" smell.

OK there is another possibility to investigate! Thanks for the advice guys

 

[Tsfc]

OK there is another possibility to investigate! Thanks for the advice guys

This is my guess as well.


These engines are getting older, even with up kept maintenance they can sweat a bit of oil but mine does and have never noticed a bad smell.