I was checking the oil this afternoon and noticed what appears to be a leak on the engine. I snapped a few picture of what I saw. This is on my 1993 SC300 (115,000 miles)

It is at the front left of the engine, above and around what I'm guessing is the water pump.



larger pics of above:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/9797219/sc300/IMG_8489.JPG

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/9797219/sc300/IMG_8488.JPG

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/9797219/sc300/IMG_8487.JPG

Anyone know if this is something serious?

dist. o-ring is leaking, shield under the dist. is a dead give away. It's all covered in oil

Thanks so much for the reply. This doesn't look major. I can probably swap that out with a new one pretty fast. Is the replacement as easy as unbolt, add new, and replace, or is there a sensor I need to be concerned about?

Again, I really apreciate the help. I hope there isn't danger of riding on this for a week or so.... can't get time off till Friday.

replacement is simply, just one bolt to remove the distributor. Make sure you mark the dist. before removal so you don't have to re-set timing (unless you can get a hold of a timing light)

Awesome. Thanks, for the help. I'll swap it out Friday.

Isn't the o-ring a dealer only part?

lol I got that leaking too, I'm lazing off fixing it in this doggone cold (its actually snowing today).

I think theres a pictorial diy on here too as well... check the diy directory

Will do. Yeah, the ring is a seperate part.... I've seen it for cheap a few places online

These guys have it:
auto parts warehouse <dot> com - $3 bucks....

Did I just type "too as well"??

Id check toyota dealership theyd have it cheaper than lexus dealer.

Please use the proper forum for maintenance questions Moved.

distributor o-ring and/or valve cover oil leak.