Exhaust Manifold Leak?

[guitarhero14]

I was checking out my engine bay and i noticed some carbon? buildup. Does this mean my exhaust manifold is leaking? I am guessing i need a new gasket unless its cracked. Am i on the right track?

 

[zippyshoe]

You may want to remove the upper heat shield to get a better look at your exhaust manifold as well as all the engine-to-manifold nuts (make sure none are obviously loose). When your engine is running, do you hear any ticking noises coming from your exhaust manifold? Often times exhaust leaks produce a ticking sound.

 

[v2ner]

That's actually the valve cover sealing. It's not a problem unless a bunch of oil shoots out. Clean it off and see if anything comes out.

 

[guitarhero14]

Thank you for the replies. I will clean off the heat shield and see what happens. I have never seen oil come out of there. I am familiar with header leak ticks since my friend has a camaro that we have been working on and just changed out the really bad gaskets last week.