Land Rover Repair: Valve cover gasket leak, valve cover gasket, pcv valve

Question
I have a 97 Disco. We have had our share probelms as most owners have. The problem I am facing now is that on the outside of the valve cover I have leak at the bolt cover only. It is gurgling oil at the bolt. I took my Disco by a local mechanic and he is saying that the engine may not be getting enough air flow in it causing pressure to build and pushing oil out around the bolt. I have not seen any leaks actually on or around the gasket it self. Someone told me the PCV valve could be bad. Could this be the problem or does the gasket need replacing only? Please help I don't want to spend an arm and a leg for something that could be repaired simple or more cost effective.

Thanks

E. Taylor
Atlanta, Georgia  

Answer
Hi Eddie,

I would go with changing only the valve cover gasket, its probably an original part anyway.  I've never heard of back pressure under the valve cover spewing oil out a loose bolt.  First time for everything...

Yes, change the gasket and go from there.  If you were having compression problems or lack of air, you'd know by the way the engine performs.  Lack of power, rough idle (this more than anything else), check engine lights and perhaps 02 sensor failures.  If you've not seen any of this then its just an oil leak. that needs a gasket adjustment.

Best of luck,

JohnMc