oil leak on alternator

[ms97sf]

I had a gasket fixed that was leaking oil onto the alternator in october, and of course the alternator itself.

My alternator went bad again, but now they say that the head gasket needs to be fixed in addition to the heads being machined, etc.. estimate comes out to over $1000+.

They went ahead and fixed the alternator under warranty, but say that they can no longer warranty the alternator without all the other repairs. However, since I'm a college student, I can't afford to have that done at this time.

I was wondering if it's okay to rig up some kind of guard that would prevent oil from dripping onto the alternator.. is it okay to use aluminum foil or something else for that purpose?

Please advise.

[Jimbo]

I have the same problem. Did you ever get any answers about using tin foil for your alternator?

Thanks,

Jim

[tm]

I think a guard would be useful too; but if done wrong, it could cause the alternator to overheat and/or get caught in the belts (not to mention possible short connections.

[bdmontero]

Your front cam seals are leaking and or valve cover gaskets. Trust me its a given. Get it fixed the right way. Several diy's on here we can help you.

[Jimbo]

You got me convinced. I'm going to get my front cam seals fixed. I just don't have the time and tools to do this type job. I was able to replace the valve cover gaskets ( a 6 hour job for me) and the cam rear seals by using the diy's.

[nepelsopon]

Hello every one,

I have just become the new owner of a 2002 Montero Sport AWD. The engine has a really bad oil leak, and from reading the descriptions of the problems on this thread, I think mine is similar.
I see a mention of the DIY for the Valve Cover Gaskets, but when looking in the DIY section, I cant seem to find it. The search feature does not seem to return anything either.
In my case, I had the starter and alternator changed but the new one seems to be getting a dose of oil as well and it might need to be replaced if the oil leaks don't get fixed.
I got the cam ring replaced (passanger's side) but the oil continues to flow.
I would appreciate any help ..
Thanks..

[nepelsopon]

One more thing....
I'm looking to get the timing belt/water pump package done at the dealership... as they warranty their work for 12months/12000 miles once I get the funds. They are looking to charge $1400 for it.
Can someone give me an idea if it would take more labor hours if they did the cam seals (again) as well as the Valve Cover Gasket while doing the timing belt job?
If I go into the dealership, I dont want to be charged twice if the smaller job (VCG and Cam seals) can be done while completing the larger job (timing belt/wp).
Would you have to take off the parts for the VCG/Cam seals while you were doing the timing belt/water pump?
Thanks for your help.

[buggzyy]

Additional labor hours usually range from 1hr to do both cam seals and 1/2 hr for the crank that is what our shop charges. I may sound like a lot but some you win some you loose. Check the DIY for Spark plug replacement the v/c gaskets are just one more step (removing the 6 bolts each and taking them off.) If the gasket is stuck to the cover I use a propane torch to heat up the edge of the cover where the gasket is then using a small flat blade pry the gasket up. its time consuming but it works. also don't forget to replace your PCV valve with a new OEM one from the dealer.

[dudgorgon]

To get to the water pump you have to remove the timing belt. If you are getting the timing belt changed that you might as well change out the water pump. The water pump is about $175 w/ $54 labor, according to my mechanic. The timing belt might be a 4 hour job and I am not sure what part costs.

Also, the oil leak is probably coming from the cam seal which is in the same area that the water pump and timing belt are located.

I wouldn't be surprised if the seals around the valve covers are shot and need replacing.

Here's my post regarding the cam seal oil leak I just had fixed:
msport97.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=8595

Hope it helps...