Major oil leak top of engine

[351turbo]

Leak is top. , not the cam covers they are dry around gasket seams to be coming from under intake ......any ideas what it could be ? 2001 4.0 SOHC

 

[BubbaFL]

What engine?

 

[351turbo]

4.0 sohc 2001 , I had change the timing chains , put back together developed leak after about 30 miles , start it up idle in driveway leaks after 10 minutes idling , big leak

 

[BubbaFL]

Bet it's the crush washer on the front cam chain tensioner. I forgot to reinstall that washer, and the entire valley filled up with oil.

 

[2000StreetRod]

left hydraulic tensioner?

Some forum members experience leaking hydraulic tensioners after replacing them. Your description sounds similar to the left (front) one leaking. The oil flows from front to rear via the valley between the heads and then down the rear of the block. Some members install an O ring with the tensioner and some don't. There are different torque specs for with and without the ring.

EDIT: I see BubbaFl beat me to it.
If installing the original washer, tighten to 67 Nm (49 lb-ft).
If installing a new washer, tighten to 44 Nm (32 lb-ft).
Apply grease to the washer to keep it in position until tight.
If you didn't install the washer and dinged the head it may not seal.

 

[351turbo]

Can I purchase the washer seperate

 

[2000StreetRod]

tensioner gasket/compression ring

Can I purchase the washer seperate

Yes. Tensioner metal O ring XU2Z6M252AA. MSRP $8.32, $5.49 from Tascaparts.com or $13.99 for two from AutoZone: Timing Kit/Component/Timing Chain Tensioner

 

[koda2000]

it sounds like you're leak is in the front, but if it's in the rear check the PCV valve and its grommet.