Should I be concerned?

[andrewrlas]

I have noticed this oil leak build up, but I am not should sure what is causing it? Gasket? Oil dip stick?

Should I be concerned?
2003 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4X2

 

[morphious]

Valve Cover Gasket.

 

[stanleybb50]

Valve Cover Gasket.

Aka at the rate its leaking at, don't even stress.

 

[morphious]

Aka at the rate its leaking at, don't even stress.

:withstupid:

 

[BlackWorksInc]

Its the Valve Cover Gasket, its not a serious issue; but if you have the money/time its an easy fix. Also how many miles do you have on your vehicle? If you're running north of about 100k and you're going to have the covers off, it might not be a bad idea to do a valve adjustment.

 

[andrewrlas]

Thanks Guys
The 4Runner only has 81xxx miles on it. I guess I'll be changing the gasket soon.

 

[radlynx]

try replacing your pcv valve first. could be your pcv valve is stuck closed. engine gets too much pressure inside and causes the leak.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

try replacing your pcv valve first. could be your pcv valve is stuck closed. engine gets too much pressure inside and causes the leak.

Not a bad theory, but if you look at the front of the valve cover the top is fairly dry while the junction between the valve cover and cylinder head is wet and has been seeping onto the front of the engine. This indicates that its more than likely the gasket that is leaking, as if it were the PCV valve the top of the valve there wouldn't be as much seepage on the front of the engine.

 

[andrewrlas]

Thanks again guys.
So is this common with the 4th gens? And how hard is it to swap the gasket? Also I am new up here so do you guys have any recommendations on where to buy the gasket other than a dealership?

 

[radlynx]

my truck does not have a gasket leak at any location. by the way, i replaced my pcv valve a month ago and found that my valve is stuck open. have to remember, even if you replace the gasket and the pressure still builds inside, it can cause another leak to some other gaskets of the engine. pcv valve is very cheap and very easy to replace (within 30 minutes if you do it slow). you can then proceed with valve cover gasket if you have more time to do it.

Thanks again guys.
So is this common with the 4th gens? And how hard is it to swap the gasket? Also I am new up here so do you guys have any recommendations on where to buy the gasket other than a dealership?