Starter and Intake Manifold

I had a starting problem on my 95: could hear a click but engine would not turn. While my wife tried to start it I noted a flash of light under the intake manifold revealing the problem: the connection from the solenoid to the starter was too loose and oxidized from repeated arcing. So I took the manifold bolts out and raised the manifold up just enough to get to the starter. Surprised how few disconnections were needed. Everything on left side can stay connected because it is not lifted very high. But I found a puddle of oil in the valley right side! Anyone know where that comes from? I fear the head gasket. BTW, what a dangerous combination: a leaking fuel rail and an arcing starter wire right under it!

I had to replace my starter today and of course that involves removing the manifold completely. I noticed the same thing. A collection of dried oil and junk. I wash my engine in the summer time and i think the it's mostly made up of crap that drains in there when I do. Anyway, as far as I know I dont have a head gasket problem, so just ignore it if its not so bad.

I had my manifold and starter out last summer. I found some gooey crap down in there, plus some twigs and nuts (no sign of the critter that put them there, though). Unless there's a lot of oil I wouldn't worry about it. That space around the starter is great for collecting any dirt and junk that is in the engine compartment. And if you haven't replaced your fuel rail, I highly recommend it. I had three leaky tubes on my fuel rail and I'm still alive, but its a nice warm feeling to see the new stainless steel fuel rail...oh yeah, and it was free (I felt real warm and fuzzy about that). Watch your mailbox for the recall...or contact GM if you haven't gotten one yet.