newgsman

iTrader: (4)

I would be really surprised if the problem is the oil pan. Oil pans usually leak the most when the car is turned off not when the motor is running. My guess is one of your seals (crank, cam, oil pump, etc. ) is the issue. The way the oil is dripping it's definitely being pushed out of the car. Oil in the oil pan is not really pressurised so it wouldn't drip out that fast.

Salil022

iTrader: (1)

That's what my guess is as well...I really don't want to dump this car, car is in great shape other than miles & this leak, Now if someone can recommend a good mechanic i can take this car to would be really helpful.

Salil022

iTrader: (1)

Bump...No one from NJ/NY/PA that can recommend a good shop for repairs?

raytseng

just go yelp it, or mechanix files on cartalk.

a ny good mechanic should have the capability to fix the problem properly.

If they are specialists with Toyota (as compared to like german cars) that's a plus.

Or bite the bullet and check with Toyota/Lexus dealer service centers

Salil022

iTrader: (1)

Here is an Update...Mechanic is now saying oil pump is leaking along with cam & crank seals.

He mentioned this job takes 15-17 hrs of labor to replace oil pump, crank & cam seals...does that sound about right? Please advice.

repugnante

Yes. That's about right. The cam seal takes a looong time. Mainly because you have to be very careful as he will be removing very critical components and putting them all back together and he has to do both sides. The crank is right there in front of him but still timely because you have to carefully remove that seal without scratching the surface. You will notice that your engine will look like its in pieces while he's working on it.

Never done the oil pump, but I'm assuming that's a timely affair as well. This is an expensive job, my friend. Be prepared to drop $1100-$2000 on this one.

vicsis250

Its one of your seals cost less then 5 buck pain in butt to replace good luck

Salil022

iTrader: (1)

This car has treated me well...So now time to drop some $$$ and get the car back on the road, Car does have 280k miles and this is the first time car ever had any kind of leak. Drivetrain on the car is still Solid.

BJabs

Does anyone know how common this camshaft seal issue is? I'm currently looking at a 98 GS 400 with 127k, and am wondering if I should ask any questions about it, on top of the questions I need to ask about the ball joints, timing belt, and actuators.

sam12345

iTrader: (1)

From the previous post sounds like you are good for another 150k

repugnante

The issue that I had with the leak was switching to synthetic. That is what caused the instant leak. Previous owner only used conventional and when I made the change, about 250 miles later, leak happened. What happens is that the conventional oil creates sludge on the seals. When synthetic is being used, the detergent cleans the seals, exposing them to spots that was once built up by sludge. Once the seals are cleaned by the synthetic, they get exposed and thus you have your leak. Because synthetic is so highly concentrated, the leak will appear like a faucet