Strange leak

[jfreeman]

I have the leak on my motor, it's coming from the top of the lower timing cover where the head/timing cover/block meet. However the under the timing cover there is only (2) gaskets, one on the left and one on the right and nothing to seal the top of it. Should I put rtv or sealant right there?

This isn't my particular motor, just a sample so you guys know what i'm talking about:

 

[CyFi6]

Its possible the valve covers, cam caps (require RTV under them), or cam seals are leaking. If it is none of these, it would have to be the head gasket, as that seals oil between the head and the timing cover. I assume it is leaking oil.

 

[jfreeman]

I've replaced both cam seals, the valve covers don't seem to be leaking. What are the cam caps? and I'm praying it's not the head gasket! lol

 

[jfreeman]

bump

 

[toyotanos]

The cam caps need a little rtv on the corners between the seal and valve cover gasket, becomes a small seepage if its not assembled with the sealant on.

 

[SRZMK3]

the valve covers like to leak oil into the spark plug valley and then once it gets in there itll start leaking out the front where that plate is, is normally where till leak at that point, next step for you is to get new valve cover gaskets.

 

[jfreeman]

I pulled to the timing cover off, thinking that it was the culprit, only to find it was much worse.



Looks as though when the head got torque down the head gasket pushed itself out, causing it to leak from an oil passage.

Well the engine has 170k on it and I've been replacing worn out parts on it for long enough, I think this is the straw that broke the camel's back, time for a rebuild!

Thanks guys.