Valve Cover leak Q

[michealmyers]

Got a 98 4runner limited....today noticed a oil burnin smell and noticed a little oil sepage on the passenger side.....I checked the valve cover bolts and they were a little loose. I tighted them down, sprayed the engine down, then drove it around for a few minutes...didn't notice any smell anymore, or leak, going to see what happens this week. I'm wondering if they simply needed tightening, or if indeed need replacing?? any thoughts?

 

[Mr. Lambdebois]

Keep your eye to make sure the leak does not redevelop. If it does you need a new valve cover gasket. Very easy to replace if it does still leak.

 

[michealmyers]

The tightening did not work.....still leaked. Was going to try to replace them myself but found the intake had to come off as well....not really sure if I could do it or not. Took it to the dealer and they did both for $247, not too bad.

 

[Mr. Lambdebois]

The intake is not that hard either but if you are not confedent in that area it is better to let someone else do it who is.

Glad you got it taken care of.

 

[michealmyers]

My thoughts exactly....I probably could have done it but didn't want to end up hosing the wife's car up

Kinda surprised that they were leaking.....has 93K miles on it......guess I was just expecting it to last a little longer. I just had the timing belt/water pump replaced so hopefully she'll be ok for a while.