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Front driver's side lower leak (video)

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by JustADriver, Oct 19, 2022.

  1. Oct 19, 2022 at 7:53 PM
    #1
    JustADriver

    JustADriver [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Minor seeping leak, maybe a drip or two on the floor after each drive.

    The CV boot does have oil on it, but I think something else is dripping on it.
    The valve cover is not leaking, or at least I don't see anything on the top of the exhaust manifold nor find any fresh oil with my hand when I feel around the valve cover gasket.
    From the top of the engine compartment everything looks dry.
    I don't think it's coming from the oil filter. I clean the area, lube the gasket, and crank it hand tight.
    There is another minor leak on the other end of the axle too, and showing up on the bottom of the transmission bell housing, but I think one or both of these leaks might be streaming or blowing down toward the transmission, rather than that being necessarily a rear main seal leak.
    So I can't rule anything out 100%, but that's as far as I can guess.
    If you can help me identify one or two likely culprits, I'll degrease it all again and check for a leak after the first drive before it starts caking everywhere.
     
    Last edited: Oct 19, 2022
  2. Oct 19, 2022 at 9:20 PM
    #2
    Av180r

    Av180r Well-Known Member

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    Hard to see from the video. I'd still be a little suspicious of the valve covers or the cam plugs on the rear of the covers.
    Maybe try some UV dye. That will quickly and easily show you where it's coming from.
     
    Nessal likes this.
  3. Oct 19, 2022 at 9:40 PM
    #3
    Nessal

    Nessal Well-Known Member

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    It's probably the cam plugs on the back side of the motor. Take a mirror and light to it.
     
  4. Oct 20, 2022 at 5:31 PM
    #4
    JustADriver

    JustADriver [OP] Well-Known Member

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    1996 Tacoma 3.4L V6 2WD 5-lug AT 5VZ-FE
    Ok, I think you're right that the cam plugs are leaking. I found some wetness back there, and I have degreased the area before. Both gaskets were replaced a few years ago and they probably didn't do the cam plugs. I have part # notes and videos saved for doing it if I decide to.
     
    Last edited: Oct 20, 2022

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