Under bonnet smoke
 

Noticed recently a "burning" smell when stopping the car after a run, which I originally put down to the start of clutch wear on my 95,000 miles '98 turbo.
But the last two times I have got out of the car I have noticed fumes from under the front drivers side lip of the bonnet, which last for a few seconds then stop. Would I be correct in thinking that if the rocker cover gasket has developed a slight leak then the oil will drip onto the exhaust headers. If so how easy is this to fix or is it a garage job. I have had a quick look and it seems quite tight on that side of the engine, I have no access to a ramp, only the usual jack and stands. Also, is this a known problem and would it be advisable to change the other side at the same time ?

Cheers

It's quite common, not mormal to do both sides, I personally suspect that the heat of the turbo on the drivers side doesn't help matters!!

it is do-able on ramps/jack, but no doubt easier with a ramp!

I've just changed the right hand rocker cover gasket on my 1994 WRX. I didn't use a ramp or jack and it took me about two hours. It is quite tight but very do-able. I would say one thing though and that's get yourself a set of ratchet spanners coz it will make it a lot easier! Good luck.

Ben

bolt seals as well!
 

hi m8,

when you do the camcover seal remeber to do the bolt seals at the same time, they only cost pennies, i have seen alot of them break up when you remove the bolts as they go hard with age.

cheers robin.

Crank oil seal?

Mine went just after my engine build & there was smoke coming out of the car but I got it replaced v.quickly & it sorted the problem :)

MAFFA

You should be able to see where its running from if you look down the sides. As said, its vital that the bolt seals are done too. Some cowboy didn't do mine and it leaked within minutes :(

You will need some paste to hold the main cover O ring seal in place, as it can move and may get pinched when you re-fit it.

MB