2004 Tacoma 203,000 miles

I have a 2004 tacoma that I bought new and has been great.

Recently I had an oil leak between the engine and transmission. (2 weeks ago)

My mechanic first changed valve cover gaskets. Helped some. ( I had tightened the originals down at 170,000 mi.

Next he replaced the oil pan gasket. Then it still leaked at the rear of the engine.

After dye test and letting it run, it was determined to be the oil cam plugs on the rear of the engine.

He replaced them and I just got the truck back today. I still see a little oil, but it may be residual from the repair etc. that hasn't dripped off. I'm gonna give it a day or 2 to see if it has stopped completely.

I've always used 5w30 oil. And after 100,000 mi. Started using 5 QT. Oil and 1 QT. Lucas oil stabilizer.

I'm in south florida. Will a thicker oil help if I continue with some leakage or is it best to stay with 5w30. If so what viscosity?

 

Best thing you can do is degrease and watch for any leakage. I have used straight 30W for a 22RE over 200K with some success.

 

I think the cam plugs was the main culprit.

I was just thinking about running a little thicker oil (less apt to run out when parked)?
Mine is a 3.4 v6