Tuff lesson learned
I changed my valve cover gaskets 9 months ago because of a leak. The problem slowed down and then in the last month really started leaking. Of course the leak is on the driver side were it is a real pita to get to. So feeling around the cam plug seemed to be leaking, so all pulled apart again without the cam plugs plates this is what the leaking side looks like. The other side was clean.

So i diffidently believe the cam plug was the culprit. I noticed to more press in plugs below the cam plug in the head these two plugs were caked in tare like oil. Do these plugs ever leak? I pretty sure the grunk in side these plugs is from the leaky valve cover and cam plug

 

great pic. i traced a leak to the cam plug today as well. Mine is leaking on the passenger side. So yes they leak. I do not know what to do about it. My valve cover gaskets were replaced a couple years ago. The valve covers are not leaking, just that cam plug in back.

 

I just recently fixed the same problem with mine. I just goobered it with rtv and let it cure for a day. If it were me I would do the plenum gasket and both valve cover gaskets at the same time. No leaks yet and it's been a few weeks

 

Another thing to check at that point would be the front cam oil seal as I have had problems with that too. Cross your fingers though because that would require to mess with the timing belt.

 

Here is the part number for that rear plug.... Comes in a two pack very cheap

Felpro ES 72308 Cam Plug Set

 

So I got to replace these guys do to leaking on my 1990 4runner with the 3.0. I got the passenger one out easily but cannot get the driver one out. i used a hook tool to get the passenger one out but the driver one which is the leaking one is just flaking away when i try to pull it out. Any words of wisdom would be appreciated. Oh yes i do have the valve covers off.
thanks
I'm thinking I need to pull the can :'(
The two bolts holding the rear can bearing are 9&10 out 12 bolts in the torque order . am I going to have to pull the timing belt? Has anyone successfully losened the rear bearing without pulling the whole cam

 

Got It! just shot a screw into it and pulled it

 

passenger side came right out had a hell of a time getting the driver side out. her is what i did.

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116...roblem-267181/