Got a motor oil leak

[Jasonredwood]

I got a 97 4runner 4x4 limited with 130k that has a decent oil leak hitting the ground on the passenger side right by the steering rack. I thought it was the rack that was leaking, but the liquid is for sure motor oil. I replaced the valve cover gaskets and had my mechanic replace the oil pan gasket. To no avail the leak continues. Bummer. The leak runs when the car is on and leaves a good 6-8" spot when parked.
Any ideas????

 

[zgensler31]

Its probably the rear main seal. Hefty to replace. It could also be the valve cover gasket, which is known to leak. Check the far back side of your valve covers.

 

[Mike&Ike]

Best thing to do would be to degrease it then run it while you are under watching for leaks. This is how I find leaks at work. If it leaks that much it should be fairly easy to find.

 

[Jasonredwood]

ugh I was hoping it wasnt the rear main seal. The Valve cover gasket has been replaced. I'll have to start another investigation after the holiday. Thanks for your input so far guys!

 

[BlackCat914]

ugh I was hoping it wasnt the rear main seal. The Valve cover gasket has been replaced. I'll have to start another investigation after the holiday. Thanks for your input so far guys!

Clean and degrease area. Add engine oil dye. Start truck and let it run a few minutes. Inspect for leak. Replace parts. Drink beer and curse.

 

[Jasonredwood]

Found the problem

Because my mechanic thought it was my oil pan gasket, it wasn't, he gave me a deal on finding and fixing the leak. My mechanic traced the leak to the water pump and timing chain cover. Long story short, he replaced the water pump, front crank o-ring thingy(can't recall the actual name), timing belt, and all associated gaskets. He suspected that the Toyota Dealership that last did the water pump at and timing belt at 98k did a janky job.
At least the engine is all sealed up though.HA

 

[19963.4lsr5]

My front crank seal was bad too. While apart I did the timing kit too.