Along with my recent O2 sensor escapade, I also took the opportunity to redo my valve cover gaskets that were definitely leaking. It looks like I've solved the valve cover leak, but I am still leaking oil from the right bank which drips down and burns off on the catalytic converter - it's certainly oil and not antifreeze.

I've used Mobile 1 synthetic since a bought this truck with 75k on the ticker, and I just turned 165k. I mention this because I've heard that the synthetic can cause leaky seals on an older motor. I'm not sure if my eyes are failing me, but the "new" leak looks like its coming from the head gasket/block seal - could it be the beginning of the end for the head gaskets now?

If so, I may going the way of Lloyd, but I'm considering the Pathfinder instead of the X (check out the new lift out for the Pathys http://www.purenissan.com/2005_preview1.htm - tempting . . .). I'm ashamed to be considering a vehicle with four wheel independent suspension which isn't a new Monty, but I need a "professional" vehicle that seats 7 but is still somewhat capable off-road.

It will be the end of an era for me after two Montys over the last 10 years, but my trusted mechanic (after relaying my new predicament) recommended looking for new vehicle since I cannot recoup the value of the repair, especially if I'm considering the Monty as a trade in.

I've said I'm considering moving on to a new vehicle before, and now I'd consider either an intervention from the group here, or a reasonable offer above the dreaded trade-in value I am expecting ($3,700-$4,600 - a typical vehicle of the year apparently would only have 86k, huh?). <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

The truck has been well taken care of and is still running great, but I just don't have the time to keep chasing the small (and now possibly large) gremlins <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/evil.gif" alt="" />. I used to commute over 100 miles to/from work, so the high mileage is almost all freeway miles with all too few, and since I'm usually a solo vehicle - comparatively non-hard core, wheeling trips thrown in here and there. It has well over 80% of the tread left on the 33s I put on back in December.

I am interested in the feed back related to the problem, but if anyone is would like to buy it, I'd like to keep it in the "family" and know its getting used properly. I can email pics if anyone would like them û please feel free to email me to cuss me out or discuss a purchase at [email]jim_calkins@yahoo.com.[/email]

Thanks for any replies and for all the assistance I've received over the years.

Take care,

Jim

The first thing I would do is use some engine cleaner to remove the excess oil. Then go down to the parts store and buy one of those $25 UV oil dye kits.

Add the UV dye to the oil, run if for a day. At night go out and find where the oil is really coming from. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

I cleaned up the motor before the valve cover job, but the dye souds like an excellent idea. I thought that was only available to the pros - I'll run down to my local Pep Boys/Kragen/Autozone (I love that we live within 2 miles of all three) and find some.

Thank you LRJ! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Jim

It is your rear cam plug seals. They cost about $5 ea. Takes about an hour to replace them. You are lucky you made it to 165k before they started leaking. They are a common problem with these engines, but not too hard to fix. There are two little bolts that hold on the cap for the seal. The seal is an O-ring about an inch in diameter. Don't sell your truck because of this leak.