Was wondering if anyone had any ideas on what this oil pattern might reveal. I had the valve-cover gaskets done a few months ago by an indy shop. Or was told they were done. Doesn't mean, of course, they were done correctly. Or were done at all. It's a 2006 with 90K-plus miles. The two patterns are the same leak, just parked in a slightly different spot. Any ideas welcomed and very appreciated.

 

Looks like the oil is pooling on the underbelly pan and running off giving the pattern on the floor. However, the only way to tell where it's coming from is to stick the old eyeballs in the engine compartment and see if there is a trail coming from the head down the engine block. When installing the valve cover gaskets, it is necessary to apply a bit of silicone sealant at a couple of points where there are sharp bends (where the cam chain adjusters mount) or it will probably leak. It also could be coming from somewhere else. But, like I said, no way to tell except a visual inspection.

 

That makes sense, Dave. Thanks very much for your thoughts. Much appreciated

 

I've replaced the valve cover gaskets on my 4.2 and they are as clean as a whistle now. Still the SOB is leaking somewhere further down the engine somewhere and I can't find it. Short of pulling the stupid thing, I'll just keep an eye on the oil and have a large drip pan situated in the garage so that it's always under the engine between the two front wheels when parked. It's just a few drips but..