Looks like I have an oil leak from the valve cover. We parked on an incline tonight and it looks like the oil was dripping down the valve cover and hitting something below and burning the oil off and causing it to smoke. The oil temp seems to be running higher than normal about 220.

Edit: Is this ok to drive with until I can get it in the shop. Would I need to have the gaskets replaced?

Also, I am looking for a reputable shop in Las Vegas. Any recommedations.

 

you are stating something is, in fact, leaking- then ask if something else could be the problem? if you know what it is why are you asking if it is something else.

 

I am sorry, you are correct. I guess I am just looking for advice on what to do. If this is a sign of a major problem or if I will be ok to drive it for a while. I just spent $1300 on a new clutch, so money is a little tight right now.

I am sorry if I offended.

 

a leaky valve cover gasket is a common problem. its also very easy to fix yourself with common tools, and the gasket set only costs about $30. the problem is probably just as you said, the oil is dripping from the leak in the valve cover onto something hot and smoking off. this is no indication of a head gasket going bad. the slight rise in oil temp could be because its march and its getting warmer outside. its ok to drive on as long as the leak isnt gushing out. just remember to check your oil level often until you get around to fixing it.

you didnt offend me, i just didnt understand what you were asking. you said 1+1=2 but then asked if it could also be 7.

 

Yeah, definitely do the valve cover gasket yourself - it's a very easy job to do.

 

Ok. Thank you guys. I am sorry that I sounded like and idiot. For some reason I thought the valve cover and the head gasket were in the same area. I don't have the tools to do the work myself unfortunately. What is the normal operating temp of your oil? I have only had this car for about 3 weeks and I could have sworn the oil was running at 180 or so. Now it has moved up to 200 - 230. I guess I am just trying to get used to these cars and I am a little paranoid since just having to have the clutch replaced right after I bought it.

 

To change the VC gaskets, you'll need basically a couple screwdrivers, a ratchet, an 8mm socket, an extension, and a swivel. Maybe a random additional tool or two, but that's it.

 

fred had the same problem when he jacked up his car. i think it's some kind of seal behind the engine but i totally forgot what it's called. you can run your finger around the valve cover.

 

Yeah. I would be nervous to do the job myself. Is anyone from Vegas that might know of a reliable shop to take it to to have the gaskets replaced?

 

It's called the Camshaft tensioner gasket seal. It's a semicircle rubber piece.