Nissan Repair: Oil Leak, timing chain cover, nissan maxima

Question
I have a 98 Nissan Maxima with a substantial oil leak.  Was first told it was coming from the distributor cap by two mechanics.  First declined to fix it (need a Nissan expert) the next tried to fix it.  After spending three days changing oil, waiting for sealant to dry, etc. it still leaked.  He then told me the leak was coming from the timing chain cover and that he couldn't fix it (didn't want to spend any more time since he didn't charge me for the first failed effort).  The dealership said if, indeed, that was what it was (they wanted diagnostic money) the beginning charge would be $1500 and could go substantially higher.  Then spoke to a Nissan mechanic who said itwould take three days and $1500 and that this leak was a common problem for this year, model and mileage. The car has 86,000 miles and this year had a busted axel (very costly).  Don't know if its worth fixing, or if the price I'm being quoted seems fair. Also had someone ask around and mechanics he knew said they didn't want to work on it -- the leak could come back, etc.  Should I bite the bullet and pay the money to the specialists, or get rid of the car (was offered $4,500 from someone, with the leak) or see if I can get a reputable person to do it for less?
Please advise.   
Thank you.
elayne

Answer
Elayne,

If you want to step off the sinking ship $4500 is a good deal for selling the car.

The timing chain cover is a pain since the car is front wheel drive and $1500 is the going rate.  There is no gasket and they use sealant instead.  It is a nightmare to get the old sealant off and get the new sealant on evenly to preclude further leaks.  So, the shoice is yours and if I was fixing the problem I would go with Nissan too...