Valve cover leak?

[moist_lapdog]

This is my first 4runner and i noticed a slight burning smell from engine. I think it may a valve cover leak from reading around but I'm not sure since I'm not a mechanic. Look at the pics and tell me what you think.

 

[downpour11]

Yes those are the valve covers, and yes they are leaking.

 

[98WhiteT4R]

Try to tighten them down the best you can, then degrease and wash that area and check back in a few days. Some of mine were really lose and it was causing a slight leak like that.

 

[moist_lapdog]

how bad is it... New gasket or just tighten bolts?

 

[downpour11]

how bad is it... New gasket or just tighten bolts?

Mines been leaking for three years wayyy worse than yours. I'm a procrastinator. I wouldn't stress it. Get to it when you can.

 

[Bumper2Bumper Auto]

I would suggest cleaning the area as it is, and then carefully tighten the bolts down a little bit. Just don't over tighten them. Many times age and the engine getting hot then cooling down over and over again over the years can cause valve cover bolts to be a little loose. If it continues to leak, THEN look at replacing them.

 

[OffRoadGuy]

Use a torque wrench 4-5 ft lbs. Then degreaser to if it works. If it doesn't then replace valve cover gasket. Might want to add a little blue Loctite also.

 

[denuz]

I degreased mine, and noticed that the leaks were coming from the rear (towards interior) bolts. I purchased some new gaskets and had them installed, along with intake manifold gaskets. (manifold comes off too)

 

[Salman]

Definitely change the oil cap seal, will cost $2-3.

 

[jgue467]

tighten em'

mine were so loose I was able to hand turn the bolts 2-3 times before I needed a wrench, 10mm. Mine smoked and of course smelled burned. Took several months after the cleanup to finally stop the smoke/smell, but IT DID!
Mostly just reach the lower bolts to tighten, where the leaks are at.
I retorque em' annually.... :banana: