deanshark

Well, I'm just giving him a way to save some money. If ya don't attempt to do something ya don't learn. I should think if you have the skills to change these valve covers, with everything that needs to come off, and in the future change the timing belt (he mentioned he's going to change it) then he would have the skills of pointing a drill and pulling a trigger. I think I was 12 (many many years ago) when I drilled out my 1st bolt. If you're gonna be a mechanic then you're gonna snap a few bolts along the way. What, are you gonna bring it to a shop every time? But whatever, you gave him your advice (spend money) and I gave him mine. (DIY, learn, save money)
jeriah; you got my suggestion, I'm done. GL with whichever way you go.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

you are talking about using an old, mostly outdated method, instead of using the proper tool for the job that WONT screw up the head/valve cover if you dont get it exactly right.

deanshark

That's b/c I'm getting old and out dated. Out of my more then 30 years of drilling bolts out there was only 1 tiny screw I had to re tap the threads. As long as ya be careful and take your time, you can do just about anything ya put your mind to. Okay, now I'm done.

python

iTrader: (4)

if ur going to start somewhere i dont think starting on an aluminum head with a high speed drill is a place to start

python

iTrader: (4)

ok mine is leaking from the circular plug on the drivers side. anyone ever removed this before? if so how does it come off and how does it go back in? i hope the cam doesnt have to come out

python

iTrader: (4)

ok there is a plug thats held in place by a cap. u have to take the valve cover off to get to it. once its off just goop it with right-stuff or whatever u choose to seal it with and put it back together.

killsnake

Will anyone show pics of this mysterious leak. Thanks

jeriah77

camshaft don't have to be taken out. Thanks God!

300 miles so far, no leak....

python

iTrader: (4)

NOPE...just remove the cap and clean up and goop it,reinstall. the plug slides up inside the cap. ill report back after i drive it and check for leaks to make sure this fixed my leak, the oil would drip from the rear of the engine and travel along a loom and make a spot towards the front of the motor.

python

iTrader: (4)

all fixed...no more leak

jeriah77

500 miles now...still no leak

wcraig18

Python, I have the same problem with my 1993 LS400. It started yesterday. The dealership called and said the left valve cover is missing the "Cam Shaft Plug". Unfortunately the cost to repair is $800+. Ouch. Good Luck, Bill

deanshark

Damn that's alot for just another 15 minutes labor while doing the valve cover gaskets. If you do have them change this you should ask them about doing the valve clearence also if they're in there anyway. Don't let them charge too much more extra labor, they're gonna have 90% of the labor done already for the gaskets. I think the "plug" they're talking about is # 11188, or the # 11183 (which is known to leak) in this part description; http://lexus.sewellparts.com/oem-cat...S400-1993.html For that price it would be worth it to do yourself, if you're able to.

92LS1uzfe

It may be the rear main seal which can be complex if you don't work on transmissions. If you do the rear main seal do the front was well and check the egr valve when the tranny is our as it is easy to access. Transmission shop could take care of it. Make sure you clean motor first make sure you cover all electrical. Place a piece of card board under it after driving. Check the color if it's brown or black it's probably oil. Of its red it's probably trans fluid. But do that first so you can be more accurate to what is leaking.