Valve Cover Gaskets & Tube Seals

[adrianp]

I recently had the spark plugs replaced on my 2004 4runner a bit after 100K miles. Afterwards they told me I'll need to replace the valve cover gaskets and since they are working on that also the tube seals. I didn't have to do it right then, but I should schedule to have it done soon.

I have a couple of questions on this, since the work is a bit over $400, mostly labor (almost $350 in labor). Is this common for the mileage? And is this something I could/should have done at the same time to save on labor?

Thanks,
Adrian

 

[M1911]

Are you seeing leakage around the valve covers?

 

[banzaj]

It depends on how bad they leak. Most likely, you they are "sweating", not leaking at this mileage. If it is not too bad, you can drive like that with no issues except for the appearance of your engine. Try cleaning the seepage with a carb cleaner or similar and see if the seepage will come back soon/ a lot. The reason may be that you have switched to synthetic oil recently and/or that you need your PCV valve cleaned/ replaced (it's a cheap DIY job).

 

[MikeInNH]

It's usually NOT common on most vehicles. Not sure how common it is with the 4runner. But I currently have over 230k miles on my 4runner and valve covers are NOT leaking. My 84 GMC pickup was notorious for leaking valve cover gaskets. I was replacing them every 20-30 k miles.

 

[adrianp]

Are you seeing leakage around the valve covers?

I'm afraid I'll need some direction as to where to look

Try cleaning the seepage with a carb cleaner or similar and see if the seepage will come back soon/ a lot. The reason may be that you have switched to synthetic oil recently and/or that you need your PCV valve cleaned/ replaced (it's a cheap DIY job).

I probably should pick up a repair manual as I want to get a bit more involved with the 4runner. Anyone have a preference between Haynes or Chiltons? Or any other?

Thanks,
Adrian

 

[tjhaf2007]

I had the same issue when I changed my spark plugs awhile back. When i saw the oil on the plug, i freaked out a little bit, but google came to the rescue and once i found out what it was from, i was fine with it.

I ended up replacing both banks anyways. i did it myself in about 1.5hrs and i spent about $30 for the valve cover gasket, and since i had to take off the intake manifold, i replaced that gasket as well.

here are the instruction on how to do it yourself: | Repair Guides | Engine Mechanical Components | Valve Covers | AutoZone.com