Smelly 4Runner

[downbylaw]

I have a 1999 4Runner (3.4, 5 speed, 163k) that always smells very hot after driving. Not an electrical smell but sort of a dirty burnt oil smell. I've checked for leaks and monitored fluid levels. It never runs hot according to the temp gauge. My mechanic thinks I am hallucinating which is a possibility I don't deny. Anyone else had this problem? Thanks.

 

[Watt maker]

I would check the following: valve covers and gaskets, oil pan and gasket, leftover oil residue from oil changes?, differential seals and t-case seals, over greased u-joints slinging grease onto the exhaust.

 

[tanglefoot]

I wonder if it's the gear oil in the trans or T-case. We have a '98 5-speed in the family and after driving it a while, it seems like a little bit of warm gear oil smell wafts into the cabin. You could try a little sealant between the shifters and the rubber shroud, or see if you have any cracks or gaps around there.

 

[nater]

My guess, valve cover gaskets. Known issue.

 

[MandAtaco]

x3 on valve cover gaskets. They will leak down on the exhaust manifolds and give that hot smell. I changed mine at around 193K, they were so dried out they could pretty much stand up on their own.

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[downbylaw]

Thanks all.