Oil leak

DANO1971

MEMBER
1996 TOYOTA 4RUNNER
3.4L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
325,000 MILES

Is this a sign of a blown head gasket or do I need to replace the valve cover gaskets? I change the oil and the oil filter. But I roundup puncturing the oil filter and I had to drive it to go get a new one and oil sprayed everywhere but the gunk that is on the engine is not leaking anywhere it is just there it is not leaking onto my driveway or any where. That sensor next to the oil filter is that the temperature gauge sensor? Because my temperature gauge is not working. Any help would be great. And it is running hot even though I change the thermostat and flush the radiator coolant system four times. I have driven it two thousand miles since I have gotten it. It has not overheated though.

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6 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Pressure check cooling system with a pressure checker auto parts rent it and clean engine with degreaser as it may be from oil filter problem. You can also use a pressure washer to clean engine.

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Monday, July 3rd, 2017 AT 9:49 AM

DANO1971

MEMBER
32 POSTS

I also forgot to put in there that before I change the oil every one of the valve cover bolts were loose so I had to tighten them. But it is it okay to power wash down where the oil filter is or should I just use a degreaser spray and then use a regular hose?