Misinformation?

I'm not sure if this is the appropriate place for this question so if the moderator feels the need to delete it I understand.

I have a 2000 LS V6. I've developed a small oil leak (about a dime size over night). I can't seem to find the culprit. Since I've read extensively about the issues with the valve cover gaskets I checked into having it replaced. The dealer tech told me the V6 doesn't experience the same VCG problems as the V8. Is this true? I'd hate to drop $800 on plugs and VCG and not see a positive result. Thanks

That is absolutely not true! What the technician may be referring to is the cowl leak that causes water to get into the coil valley. That is a V8 issue and not a problem with the V6. The VCG leak is common to the V6. However, typically this leak will not cause a leak to the floor. Instead it allows oil to leak into the coil/spark plug well seals which will lead to a misfire.

I'm not saying the VCG is not the cause of your leak, I'm just suggesting you look around more. You didn't happen to just have the oil changed right before you noticed this did you? It could be residual oil from a careless oil change, or possibly a loose drain plug or oil filter. I've also seen the oil pan gaskets leak on these as well. The oil pan gasket doesn't seem to be a common issue though. There's nothing saying that the leak you are experiencing has to be a common issue either though....

And by the way, this question is a totally legitimate post. However, the AF Guidelines that you agreed to when registering for the forums asks you to title the thread with a meaningful title. Something like "Small oil leak" would be better. If you're not sure how to change the title, let me know and I'll do it.

-Rod

I am not the moderator but, (in my opinion) process of elimination is a good start. If it was the valve cover gaskets you should smell hot oil because oil is running down the sides of the lower [hot] engine. Do you smell hot oil? Can you see wet oil on the lower sides of the engine? If so where is the dry line? When you park; get out and open the hood. Take a good look and sniff. If nothing inspect the underbody. Where does the dryline start. When driving, the natural airflow will blow leaks under the car rearward -- meaning you cant always rely on the drip spot under the car. Check the oil often. If you are loosing lots of oil you might be leaking oil when you are driving around. If not you may have a park drip. Try to figure out what, when, and where you are leaking oil. Sounds to me like a pan gasket but its hard to truth that theory at this point. Leaks usually cant hide from our sense of sight and smell.

2000 LINCOLN LS with High mileage!

Caution: This is a very good car to exercise your Auto,and Technican
Experience!

The car is not worth the problems,if you have to pay for Lincoln Service.

This car is almost ten years old and it was born with problems.

You should be able to buy plugs + Coils for $200.
Gaskets + Spark plug boss Seals for $100,and don't forget that PVC elbow
under the Intake!


MCGIVER