Reader Question
Hello, thanks for taking my question. I have an older Ford F150 V8 and the valve cover gaskets are leaking oil. Can you tell me an approximate cost to repair this oil leak please?
Ralph
Hi there Ralph,
If you were in my shop in Houston TX I would charge you about $275 to replace both valve cover gaskets and the PCV valve.
The PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) is what allows the engine to breath and over time it gets all gummed up with junk which builds up internal pressure on the engine.
This internal pressure is what causes seals gaskets and oil rings to leak.
Have your mechanic check the PVC system and make sure it is functioning properly.
What I see happen MANY MANY times is people repair 1 oil leak, and 2-3 others pop up later on. It can be a loosing game trying to seal an older engine that has too much internal pressure due to PCV problems.
In your case you can also use a thicker weight engine oil which will help slow down oil leaks. You can use Castrol 20W-50 for this vehicle without an issue and should really help reduce oil consumption and leaking.
Hope that helps
Blessings,
Austin Davis