Oil Leak from either Timing Cover or Valve Cover
 

Last week, I had the chance to install my OpenFlash header. After removing the OEM header, I found what seems to be a leak from either the cam tower or timing cover. I've driven the car for over 40k and I've always noticed a faint smell of oil burning after a long drive.

Since owning the car, I've checked my block off plate on the passenger side backside of the block in hopes for a leak but found nothing. I check my oil levels couple times a month, but never noticed a significant amount missing. I'm assuming that this a slow leak.

I spoke with a personal friend who's a tech with Toyota about this issue. He mentioned that there are several models of Toyota and Subaru that have a similar issue due to the placement of silicone.

I plan to bring in my car for warranty repairs in the coming weeks. I am worried that they can not isolate whether the leak is coming the cam tower versus the timing cover.

I was wondering if anyone on this forum experienced a similar issue?

Mystery leaks can be a pain. Add UV leak indicator to the oil and check frequently using the UV light and glasses. These kits are now available at many parts stores. Instructions say to clean before use but sometimes I have found it easier to find the general area while dirty. Then clean and look again as the dye stays in the oil.

Hard area to seal where 3 surface areas meet.

Hi BRZY, I experienced the same exact problem you have. Mine was leaking from the timing cover then got that fixed, but didn't help much.. The dealer said it was coming from the valve cover, took it off, cleaned it and sealed it then voila! No leaks! However; if you have an unskilled technician like how i did, he might use too much silicone, and cause it to go into your oil and clog an oil line, which in return causes a loud knock.. I'm currently waiting to see what Toyota has to say about the damages, but definitely leaking from the valve cover, if not the timing cover!

I had my header wrapped today. I noticed the same thing! I will check the valve cover.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k8...ps2tzcz4wi.jpg

that's a subaru engine oem feature.


there have been a number of threads on leaks from driver and passenger sides (NOT cam plate):



http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...78#post1617278
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showt...light=oil+leak
http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87193&page=1


check this TSB if it covers your case:

http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showp...&postcount=187

gluck