Hey guys I just bought my first Lexus. A 2001 300 , it’s leaking oil around the valve covers, (not smoking oil) and I’m certain the gaskets are leaking (could be a bad gasket job last time) not for certain though. This happens to be a job I’m capable of doing after watching tutorials of it. Does it matter which brand gaskets I get ? And do you guys have any tips on if there is a need for the sealant and where if anywhere other than the curves? Thank you very much in advance !

 

It's not necessary a bad gasket job as it wears out over time. I always use the Fel-Pro gaskets and they have lasted for me. While you're in there doing the gasket job, you may want to replace your spark plugs at the same time even if it's not due yet.

It's not the curves you have to worry about, it's the corners at the end of those curves that will leak if you don't put sealant on them. Apply a generous amount and wipe off the excess after the covers are back on.

 

I've used the cheapest valve cover gaskets and I've used the fel pro ones. The main difference is the fel pro gasket has spots along the gasket that holds it in place when installing. You could use rtv to hold the gasket in place if have it. The price different is about 10 bucks but it makes for a slightly easier install.

 

Check out RockAuto for maintenance parts if you haven't heard of them. Many brands to choose from and good prices if you can work out the shipping from various warehouses. I usually trust Fel-pro when available. Proven to be of great quality and fit. I also like that they typically use the bright blue color so it's easy to see when a seal has been replaced.

You should inspect under the front most top cover that says VVTi on it. One of the notorious leaks is from the VVT sprocket and you will find it wet with oil all over the underside of cover and inside the front covers if it is leaking. The cam and crank seals are highly common leaks too.

Some other things to consider while doing the valve covers are: Spark plugs and wires, and the three coil boots if they are oil soaked. If you do, be extra careful with the coil connectors because they always are brittle and come apart. This causes many to chase misfire issues after messing up their wiring. I actually replaced mine because I hate broken connectors. Another thing is to take the opportunity to scrub out the throttle body/blade good while you have it off using some kind of long bottle brush/rag combination. Be sure to do a system reset with the battery disconnect method once all finished. And finally the PCV valve and grommet. It's often overlooked and has a lot to do with a good running engine. The grommet is sure to disintegrate on you, so have one on hand. You may run into some brittle hoses that need replaced. But the things I mentioned can all be done while you're in there and you shouldn't have to go back into that area for any reason for a good long while.

Here is a super cheap deal on the coil connectors. Well worth waiting for if you ask me. You will be glad to have them. https://www.ebay.com/itm/23346046902...3ABFBMpvL_1rBf