Burning oil under the bonnet - any ideas

[ikd0234]

Hi, I have an issue with my trusty vs commodore.

Getting what looks like burning oil from low down on the RHS of the engine (3.8L v6).

Anyone have any idea what it could be/common causes?? I am thinking maybe head gasket?? I heard somewhere that they are known to give up the ghost at the back of the engine.


Help would be appreciated.

 

[losh1971]

If it's a fair bit of oil it's likely rocker cover gaskets. HGs do leak oil but not normally badly enough to smoke.

 

[ikd0234]

If it's a fair bit of oil it's likely rocker cover gaskets. HGs do leak oil but not normally badly enough to smoke.

Thanks but seems to be coming from below exhaust manifold which makes me think head gasket, unless the oil is leaking down from the rocker cover at the back of the engine.

I will take a look tomorrow.

thanks

 

[Immortality]

Best bet is to degrease the whole engine and then look for clean fresh oil.

Head gaskets aren't a common problem unless it's been overheated badly, repeatedly etc.

My money is on rocker cover gaskets or valley leaking down the side/back of the motor.

 

[ephect]

Check the metal transmission lines around there too.

 

[vs-lover]

Is this happening on a daily basis or just after the vehicle has been sitting for a few days ?

 

[ikd0234]

Best bet is to degrease the whole engine and then look for clean fresh oil.

Head gaskets aren't a common problem unless it's been overheated badly, repeatedly etc.

My money is on rocker cover gaskets or valley leaking down the side/back of the motor.

Thanks,
You were bang on!

It was rocker covers... All fixed. Thanks for your suggestion. Much appreciated!