Oil leaking through formed in place gasket.

[Torn Mind]

Any temp fix for it, like cramming RTV in the gap? Or just live with it?

It's coming out of the front of the timing cover on my mom's 2007 Matrix and I am absolutely not taking apart all that stuff on the serpentine belt just to apply new FIPG sealer in a cramped space. Everything is functional and showing no signs of needing immediate attention.

 

[Raizinman]

Sorry to hear this.

An oil leak from the timing chain tensioner is very common for this engine. The tensioner leaks down the back of the block onto the power steering pump and crank pulley and eventually down the oil pan onto the ground. If oil finds its way onto the serpentine belt, the belt will start to slip, tear, or break. You don’t want this to happen.

Here is the bad news you don’t want to hear.

Replacing the leak involves replacing the failed three dollar O-ring that seals the chain tensioner.

The technician removes the valve cover, sets the crank and camshaft to top dead center on cylinder #1, unbolts the tensioner, replaces the O-ring on the tensioner, resets and reinstalls the tensioner, and reassembles the valve cover with a new gaskets. Resetting and unlocking the tensioner is a crucial step (something you can’t do unless you remove the valve cover gasket). Once the tensioner is installed and locked you need to unlock the tensioner by releasing the hook and rotating the engine back a few degrees (it’ll make a clicking noise when it releases). Shops will charge anywhere from $400 to $600 for this work.

Here is the good new you want to hear.

You might try starting about an inch above the timing chain tensioner. Using a razor blade to scrape off some excess old white sealant in the area of the leak, then clean the area of the leak using carb or brake cleaner two or three times, and then use your finger to cram in some black RTV sealant into the area. It hasn't leaked since.

Many people have used this method successfully for a period of time. Cost involved in trying this about $5.

 

[Torn Mind]

Tensioner is in the rear near the exhaust. I actually replaced the O-ring a year or two ago and did the DIY way of turning the crankshaft until it clicks. It does seem that it is leaking again, as I wiped up fresh-looking oil again just underneath it.

The valve cover might be starting to leak, but only at the rear corners. The rest of the gasket has no oil on metal.



But what I want to address is that I'm seeing black scattering out near the front and the intake manifold. And that is where I want a temp fix, be it cramming RTV or using thicker oil.