Alright, in the past month or so i've noticed some oil spots under my rig, looked under and saw a few things, didn't think much about it. Look under it yesterday with the lamp and whatever, it seems there's oil coming from around the #5 and 6 cylinders (both sides). Valve covers? I checked the dipstick, i haven't really lost any oil, (my engine doesn't burn a drop).. and i've had no overheating issues. It only started once it started getting warmer, i've been running a 5w30/lucas oil in a 4:1 mix during the winter, is that too thin and leaking thought the cover seals?
I'm pretty sure it's not the head gasket, because oil cant seep through that right?
I can get some pictures if need be, but most seems to be coming from around the 5 and 6 spark plugs (not from the plugs, around them), valve covers?
Anyways, if it is the valve covers, think it would be a good idea to clean the injectors, add a high-output alternator, rebuild the PS pump and fix the AC at the same time? How about put in some new headgaskets with DOA studs and a new timing belt for preventative maintenance?
Anyways, i was pretty pissed off yesterday when i saw the oil dripping out, but i'm gonna have a few people check it out. (valve covers are no big deal, i can figure them out).
Vavle covers?
BTW, my truck has 185k km on it if that matters... (and runs pretty strong for a stock 3.slow)...

Valve cover gaskets are a very common leak and you have the right symptoms. I have the same engine (same year and mileage too) and have just finished changing the valve cover gaskets. Be sure the half circle part is seated and be sure to use the FIPG where it is required in the FSM. It is a bit of a chore to pull the air intake to get to them so I would consider other things that you might want to do while you are in there. I pulled the fuel injectors and had them cleaned while I was at it.

Chartdog,
Did you have to replace the manifold gasket too? Just curious cuz the only leaks on my truck are from the valve covers. I replaced the driverside one w/ no issues. Passenger side is buried. It's the one gasket I didn't buy when getting the valve cover gaskets.
Thanks

You will need the gasket between the air intake chamber and the actual intake manifold. You will also need the EGR gaskets since it has to come off to get the air intake off. You do not need the head to manifold gaskets. Might also want to change the PCV valve since it is a pain with the intake chamber in place.