Valve cover leaking oil

May 27, 2004 4 Replies
M

I just noticed that one of the top 3 bolts in the center of my valve cover is permeating oil around the edge of the bolt. It is so minimal that it is hardly noticeable. Everything else is bone-dry. I just had the valve cover gasket replaced last year, is this normal? I have a 94 SL2 with 90K miles.



I have an appointment to have the gasket changed next week, but I am concerned as I drive about 60 miles a day at highway speeds (above 70mph) and am concerned about compression loss or engine damage. I am not low on oil.



As long as I make sure the oil is at level, is this ok? Thanks.


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J

What about in the base of the spark plug wells, any oil there?

Unless it was leaving puddles I wouldn't think it's anything but annoying. It could be a result of the last gasket replacement (not done correctly), or if I made a leap (wild guess) there could be increased cover pressure from worn valve stem seals.

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B

Valve covers are often prone to leak/seep especially on a 1.9L. Someone must not have torqued it down right or missed a spot that required sealant or didnt clean the surface very well.

Compression loss from a "valve" cover?

Yup.

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M

well, I just wanted to be on the safe side. I feel much better knowing that it is more of an annoyance then a prelude to a problem, especially when I am now driving 60 miles a day at speeds up to and past 80mph sometimes. Thanx.

marx404

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M

nope, bone dry. pulled out the plug wires, inspected them and the plug wells too. :-)

marx404

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