2G Leaking oil in spark plug valley

[OwenRonn]

I am leaking oil from somewhere in the spark plug valley it started shortly before I did an engine pull so I replaced valve cover gaskets and the spark plug gaskets. Back to driving the car after the engine was back in and it was still leaking in the same spot I just replaced the gaskets again and it is still leaking from there. Even though I replaced the spark plugs while I had the engine out I havent noticed any kind of misfire or fouled plugs before or after the engine pull dispite the oil presumably coming from there which is starting to make me think its coming from somewhere else in the valley.

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[tschuhly]

Check around the bolts for small cracks especially the one in the corner on the timing belt side/IM side. Unfortunately, the valve covers on these cars are not the best material. Sometimes if a bolt is overtightened or not the correct length it can cause cracks. It happened to mine.

Also remember that these are not your average aluminum. So if you go to weld it, it will be more challenging then just welding aluminum.

 

[OwenRonn]

Check around the bolts for small cracks especially the one in the corner on the timing belt side/IM side. Unfortunately, the valve covers on these cars are not the best material. Sometimes if a bolt is overtightened or not the correct length it can cause cracks. It happened to mine.

Also remember that these are not your average aluminum. So if you go to weld it, it will be more challenging then just welding

Check around the bolts for small cracks especially the one in the corner on the timing belt side/IM side. Unfortunately, the valve covers on these cars are not the best material. Sometimes if a bolt is overtightened or not the correct length it can cause cracks. It happened to mine.

Also remember that these are not your average aluminum. So if you go to weld it, it will be more challenging then just welding aluminum.

I will check them, what do you mean by not your average aluminum, just really thin and crappy? would I be better off trying to find a business that might do it or should I just replace it entirely with one made of a stronger material, if those exist.

 

[tschuhly]

I was told by someone that they are a mix of aluminum and magnesium or something. Basically, it is dirty aluminum, and it makes for a very sloppy, dirty weld. Not that I have personally experienced it but only what I have heard.

 

[dwb]

The oil cap seal could be another source.