Hi guys,

I am doing my timing belt + water pump today on my 1995 4Runner with the 3VZE. While I have everything taken apart, I am seeing a possible oil leak and wonder if you guys might have any thoughts.

The truck drips a few drops of oil every few days...but it is hardly noticeable and not not require constant top ups of oil. It seems to come from the middle/drivers side so I am thinking it could be the rear seal. I don't think it is coming from the valve covers because I have cleaned them and they still look clean after a month.

While doing my timing belt, I noticed that around the water pump area was somewhat greasy. The oil was changed only 3000 km ago with a new oil filter, but as you can see from the picture, there seems to be some minor spraying of oil on the filter.

Picture is below. Any thoughts guys? Are there any components around this area that I could check?

 

Stop driving in the La Brea tar pits?

That's one nasty looking mess. And gravity is not helping. No matter where it is leaking from, it will eventually get all over everything (yes, even a leak from the valve cover could do this) I don't think you'll ever find the leak until you clean that up, then start the engine, then take a look where there is a fine line of oil on a clean engine.

I realize that means putting it together, THEN looking for the leak. But on the bright side, you can do a much better job cleaning it while it's apart.

Good luck!