The car I'm going to look at tomorrow, a '93 Bonne SLE, has a slight oil leak, according to the owner (about a quart a month, he says). He THINKS it might be from the valve cover gasket, but doesn't know. FYI, the same gasket was starting to bubble up on my '93 SE when I bought it about two years back with 142k on the odo. Mine wasn't leaking, though; I got it replaced right after I got it, as a preventative measure. This car I'm going to look at only has 121k miles on it; seems a little early for it to leak. Any ideas on where such a leak could be coming from, and how to tell? Also, how hard are the various leaks to fix, and how much are parts, on average? Also, how long would it take to do it myself, with an experienced mechanic (my dad, hehe ) at my side? I remember it cost me $400, thereabouts, to get mine fixed at our local mechanic, due to the fact that my dad wasn't feeling well at the time. Still isn't, but that'* neither here nor there, I guess... Anyways, thanks a bunch in advance for the help, guys

The most likely culprit is the two LIM seals under the LIM, between it and the block. One on the TB end or the other on the belt end.

These are non-pressure leaks. Valve train splash leaks if you get my meaning.

What are the ramifications of that kind of leak? Thanks for the possible identification; would you mind going over the answers to some of the other questions, though? Thanks again

The LIM gasket set is 4 pieces, but throw the UIM gasket and TB gasket in for good measure, so you can scrub the ever-lovin' snot our of the TB at the same time. You and your Dad should be able to do it in 4 hours taking your time, for under 100 bucks including oil and coolant. (change oil when done, top of coolant).

Or take it over to Don'*. He'll do it for you in 2 hours.

I just might, lol :P Thanks a bunch, man.

Oh yeah, and will that kind of leak get worse? Is it safe not to address that leak for a while, or will it get progressively worse over time? Thanks again for the help man

There'* no real saying if it will get worse or continue, but a splash leak like that is probably a constant. Keep an eye on the oil level and you will be fine. Minus the continual oil smell that will remind you every time you drive it.

Kyle...are you definately on this one?

Off Topic: remember how I was bugging you to leave a deposit...they guy I bought my 97 from last night wouldn't take a deposit....arrrggghhh

Does it matter? You are not buying it, after all But, yes, if it'* nice, I'm getting it checked out today; if that checks out, I'm buying it on the spot and bringing it home. Here'* hoping it'* nice...

Oh, and thanks for the advice

Hey Ingrate...lol j/k

I've got a 95 Bonneville SSEi possibly for sale. See my sig pic. Yeah..that beautiful car!

Now, if only you didn't live in Connecticut