Smokie

Just had knock sensors replaced and now using 2x oil about 1 qt for 200 miles. What modifications can I do to help oil sludge issues or do I need to do head wprk if rings are still good? 230k miles on my 2002 Lexus RX300

salimshah

Sludge is when oil turns into tar like blobs. Does your engine have them [open up the valve cover to find out].

Some engines have exhibited oil consumption through the PCV valve. You can add a catch can to verify. Search and you will find plenty of info. One remedy recommended is changing the valve cover.

Salim

Smokie

After reading I know it has sludge. Would you suggest the Gen3 covers or is there a modified replacement head available? Will any later model heads interchange on 3.0 engine? Thanks

Lexmus

It is 99% likely your rear valve cover is to blame. I used one of these catch cans to confirm mine was bad.

shark13

So I have been putting off doing the replacement to my rear valve cover for probably four or five years. The car doesn't get driven much but I just can't take continuously buying quart after quart anymore. I've read probably every page of this thread and feel highly confident. My only question is regarding the valve cover part number. If I order part number 11201-0A060 from the dealership am I definitely going to receive the 3rd generation of the valve cover or is there a chance it will be the 2nd generation (which I've read can still cause issues)? I am hoping each generation had its own part number. Thanks

Australian

There is a thread recently boosted to front all about these valve covers and upgrade cover.