When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I am getting oil pooling on top of the intake manifold flange by the injectors during high RPM road course days. No issues for regular driving. I have replaced the valve cover gasket and believe it is sealed well. However, I don’t have a PCV-side catch can yet. My theory is that the lack of catch can there has me pulling oil from the crankcase into the intake at the PCV valve during high RPM deceleration on track and that it has saturated the intake manifold gasket to the point that the oil is blowing through the gasket (including upward) under boost. Following this theory, I think the fix is a catch can between the PCV and the intake and perhaps replacing my intake manifold gasket.
I know it looks like a valve cover gasket leak, but I don’t think so in this case.
Anyone seen anything like this? Does my theory of the problem seem plausible?
I would still point to it leaking from the VC or gasket. The gasket looks wet in that photo.
That much oil making it's way up there through the manifold gasket seems improbable.
I can see where the PCV theory would make sense. You would be able to find that on a boost leak test I would think, maybe check it?
The VC gasket does seem wet now. It’s brand new and I used a torque wrench to set the bolts to 31 in-lbs. Not sure what to do. Is it more likely to be leaking between the cover and the gasket or the head and the gasket? I’m kind of thinking the cover, and that I should get another gasket and this time use more RTV or Right Stuff between the cover and the gasket. Any thoughts?
The VC gasket does seem wet now. It’s brand new and I used a torque wrench to set the bolts to 31 in-lbs. Not sure what to do. Is it more likely to be leaking between the cover and the gasket or the head and the gasket? I’m kind of thinking the cover, and that I should get another gasket and this time use more RTV or Right Stuff between the cover and the gasket. Any thoughts?
Definitly check close for cracks, as said above, it's pretty easy to crack one.
Did you use an OEM gasket? Most of the time there aren't issues with aftermarket V/C gaskets, but I did have an Advance special leak pretty bad on me. Most likely its leaking from the gasket to head.
Try a different gasket, make sure it's all cleaned up, and give it a go.
