I was looking under my car yesterday and trying to figure out how hard it would be to instal a UD pulley and saw a hole bunch of oil dripping down the back of the crank case. I checked the oil level and it was right below the "MIN" stamped on the dip stick [:-] At first I thought I was a loose oil filter or something but then traced it back to somewhere behind the engine crank case under the valve cover. I couldnt really see where exactly it was coming from because there so much stuff in the way and I didnt have the time to take it apart. So my first question is, does anyone know wherethis might be coming from? Purhaps this is a commen problem that I just dont know about? I rebolted the valve cover back on but im pretty sure it isnt coming from that. It almost looks like it might be coming from the back of the heads but its just oil, no fuel or anything. Which brings me to my next question, if I do need to replace a head gasket, does anyone have a suggestion on a good brand so something like this wont happen again? Its a 2000 4-door, 96k miles, 16v SOHC, no real upgrades engine wise, 10-W30, FRAM high milage oil filter. Thanks for any help.

 

The first thing is to find out if it is just your valve cover gasket. At 96000 miles it is a good bet that is all it is. Howver you will have to get in and look at it to find out.

If it is the head gasket then use an MLS (multi layed steel) gasket and new head bolts. Should be fine for a while. Make sure you follow detorquing and torquing routines to prevent head warpage and chake you head for straightness.