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LIM or Valve Cover Gasket Oil Leak

R

robinsone

New member
'04 with 227k on it, recently replaced the LIM gasket about 10k ago. I've got an oil leak in between the LIM and the valve cover (both sides). When I installed the LIM I torqued to specs and then went back over and snugged/double checked each bolt with a 1/16-1/8 turn just to be sure as the torque specs are pretty low. I let sit overnight to let the RTV dry. Double checked the bolts again.

I had replaced the valve cover gaskets about 20-30k ago, then realized I needed to also replace the grommets which I did about 5k after that.

I'm not sure if it is at all possible that I over torqued the LIM at all or if so that would cause an oil leak in between the LIM/valve cover as I thought a hallmark of a LIM is leaking coolant and not oil.

I'm highly suspect of a valve cover gasket (VGC) but since I recently replaced the LIM I'm nervous that this might be the issue, but haven't come across a LIM which would result in leaking oil at the location I'm seeing it at.

I'm going to replace the VGC just because, well that's the easier thing to do, but wanted to see if anyone's had an experience to mine or could speak to the oil leak I'm having.
 


First image is one near the front engine mount bracket, interesting there seems to be a oil collecting on the bolt attaching it to the block. the second image is the rear bracket to the alternator/EGR valve, near the bolt which attaches to the block. Third is one of the valley gaskets. It appears wet however could this be oil which has collected from the valve cover gasket leak.

Let me know your thoughts.

http://i67.tinypic.com/2njbyv8.jpg


http://i63.tinypic.com/hvthxk.jpg


http://i68.tinypic.com/2h3cz9x.jpg
 
I don't see much either. Looks like in the last picture there is a bit of seepage around the end cap but nothing I would worry about.
 
It's possible the coolant elbow(s) or LIM gaskets didn't seat correctly.

However it's a 3800. It'll run forever. Even with coolant and vacuum leaks.
 


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