dvwd

I have a 98 LTD, I purchased it used in July of 2001 with 80K on the 3.4 V6 w/Auto trans

It now has 96K on it, I was checking everything out in the engine compartment, my engine compartment is excetpionaly clean, there has been no signs of any type of fluid leaks until now. I spotted some oil where it should not be. The oil spot is located on the rear passanger side of the engine, it looks to be the area around where the tranny meets the engine, the oil is dark brown, the oil spot is on the upper part of the transmission, the area in question is directly across from where the exhuast pipe bolts to the exhuast manifold. it is definitely not any valve cover leak, I ran my hand around the whole underside of the valve cover in that area and it is dry as a bone, the oil seems to be in the area of the head gasket.

It is not "alot" of oil, but then again, I don't think there should be any there. The engines runs good, the temperature does not fluctuate, I know the prev engines had problems with the head gaskets, here are my questions.

Has the 98's been know for bad head gaskets?
would a bad head gasket allow oil to seep out of the engine?
could it be a rear seal?
I tried to take a digital photo, but the I could not get a good shot of the area.

Any info, ideas or suggestions would be very appreciated.

Thanks.

dvwd

one more try with the pic

FattyCBR

The 96 and 97 had a headgasket recall campaign. If you're sure it's the headgasket you may try calling customer relations 800 number.

keisur

Try posting this question at the link I am providing, they are engine freaks and they know all about almost every toyota engine made and the problems that occur with each along with troubleshooting tips and possible causes and fixes.

Toyota 4x4 Discussion Group