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Head Gasket or Valve Cover Gasket Leak?

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by wilsonpj, May 18, 2022.

  1. May 18, 2022 at 4:28 AM
    #1
    wilsonpj

    wilsonpj [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Charleston, South Carolina
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    OME 3in Lift, LR UCA's, 33in DuraTracs, All-Pro Full Skids, TRD CAI & Cat Back, 16x8 KMC Enduros
    Anyone know what is causing this leak? Is this the head gasket or valve cover gasket? 2006 4.0L with 145K. No error codes / no engine issues thus far. This is the passenger side front of the engine.

    I did notice my coolant is below the low line level in the overflow tank.

    IMG_2629.jpg
     
  2. May 18, 2022 at 4:49 AM
    #2
    Hunter gatherer

    Hunter gatherer Well-Known Member

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    The dark staining appears to be a valve cover gasket leak(looks minor). The white spots might be from your overflow burping out some coolant. Check your oil if it's a head gasket it might be getting milky from coolant mixing in with it.
     
  3. May 18, 2022 at 7:46 AM
    #3
    tube

    tube Member

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    Always look at leaks from a "top-down" view. Your head gasket is below your valve cover gasket, so there's no way the leak could really travel upward and saturate your valve cover.
     
    ToyoTaco25 likes this.
  4. May 18, 2022 at 8:34 AM
    #4
    nd4spdbh

    nd4spdbh Well-Known Member

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    Unless its visibly pooling oil, I wouldnt worry about it, maybe stick a wrench on valve cover bolts to see if they are loose.

    As far as coolant, it will naturally evaporate out of the overflow tank. Check n make sure (when cold) the radiator is topped off, and fill the overflow tank up and you will be golden.
     

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