Engine leak: can I use Walmart's engine oil leak fluid?

[miata007]

Lately my Q has developed an engine oil leak (several drops per day). Does using the stuffs(suppose to fix minor leaks) from local parts store/Walmart are going to hurt the engine in the long run? I didn't have any leaking problem until few weeks ago. I also noticing I have been flooring the gas pedal quite a bit for reckless driving/engine testing. Thanks!

007

[Jesda]

Avoid the leak-stop stuff. It'll just make your lifters noisy and reduce lubrication. I only use it on beaters with $300 replacement engines.

[elwesso]

Lately my Q has developed an engine oil leak (several drops per day). Does using the stuffs(suppose to fix minor leaks) from local parts store/Walmart are going to hurt the engine in the long run? I didn't have any leaking problem until few weeks ago. I also noticing I have been flooring the gas pedal quite a bit for reckless driving/engine testing. Thanks!

007

Dont use that crap!

[Aus94Q45]

maybe a better question -- what is the source of the leak?

[miata007]

I am not sure on naming of engine components. Anyway, I believe is the right valve cover (passenger side). That's where the plugs and coils are. I saw some bolts there....thought about tighten them. Or one day, I will take more things out and replace the gasket instead. Is this a hard task? Does it involve removing the plenum?

Thanks for the response! I won't use those engine leak fluids for sure.

007

[Jesda]

Valve cover leak? Should take a few hours, but a gasket is available that should make it a lot easier. Plenum can stay on, I believe.

[Aus94Q45]

Common issue and that is what I would have guessed. I think that 94 and later has a gasket and the 93 and back are sealed with gasket sealer. Tell tale of the leak is the smoke smell that is created by the oil dripping on the exhaust manifolds. Not exactly an easy job for first timers. However, mechanically inclined members of this board have done it with success. I belive that local shops will charge you about $400 -- not much in parts, but a fair amount of time involved.

[Aus94Q45]

also, SLIGHTLY tightening the bolts may provide some short term relief, but it will not fix the problem. Do not over tighten!

[miata007]

What is the ft-lb rating on these bolts? Or can I guess/estimate that it is tight enough? The oils are definately leaking onto the exhaust components causing a smell.

Also check with the infinitiparts usa website. They have the gasket for $25 each.

007

[redmanfx]

What year Q do you have?

red

[elwesso]

Your not gonna want to tighten them more than about 15ft lbs..

According to the wes stinson torque O meter, that is pretty tight with a standard 1/4in drive socket (the little guy)