Smell of oil burning in engine bay

[AAMIR SHAIKH]

Hello Prime members:

Need help.I smell oil burning in the engine bay after I had the timing belt and water pump replaced. Have 80K on my car and its in impecable condition. After researching the Prime DIY forums, I suspect its the VTEC seals. Could some one identify, where these seals are and the cost to replace them. What happens if these are not replaced? Is the engine prone to catching fire?

Thank you very much
Regards

 

[NSXCessive]

Sounds Like it could be your Vtec Spool Valve Gaskets? They tend to drip over into the exhaust manifold area causing your 'oil burning smell' problem. I had mine replaced at the 96Kms service which is timing belt, water pump etc. I would have to say its something you should get looked at if your seals aren't leaking. I'd say your prone to smoke more than the odds of enough oil to be able to catch fire dripping on your exhaust manifold.

See This Thread about half way down there are some pictures from Vytas:

http://www.nsxprime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35121&highlight=vtec+gaskets

 

[Doc308]

What does the spool valve do ? Just curious.

 

[Larry Bastanza]

AAMIR,

If you had no burning oil smell before then I would doubt that all of a sudden your spool valves are leaking. Although the spool valve are a typical problem, I think you would have had the problem before the work. Typically this is due the rear valve cover not seating properly when reinstalled after the timing belt replacement. Ask me how I know. Time to return it to the shop for them to have a look.

Doc,

The spool valve is a oil switch that when open, sends pressurized oil to the VTEC system the engage VTEC mode. This is a common leak since they are under the full oil pressure of the engine.

HTH,
LarryB

 

[nsxexotic]

Sorry if I have ask this before. How much does it cost to replace the spool valve gaskets? or you could answer it in labor hours.

I'm going to get this done next time I take it to the dealer. Trying to see what I should expect - don't want to go in clueless

Thanks a bunch.

 

[RP-Motorsports]

Don't forget to check the cam plugs, especially the rear-most one, it will slowly leak oil onto the rear header! I know, mine does!

 

[NSXCessive]

T Bell as well as some others made some points I forgot to mention. The cam plugs seem to always leak over time! Mine leaked as well, it had been almost 2years since I did all the work I almost forgot. I also had those replaced, as well as the valve cover gaskets. I also had the oil pan checked for leaks, it seemed fine on my car. If your are in doubt what is causing your problem, then have a mechanic or dealer take a look. :smile:

Thanks,

 

[AAMIR SHAIKH]

Thanks guys for all the respones.

My car will go to Brad at Autologic in Houston for a detail check up now. He is the best when it comes to trouble shooting problems. I think, I will go with Larry Bastanza's advice. His advice is always professional and correct. I'll check the rear valve cover gasket. How ever, I did not have this smell before when I changed the timing belt. So maybe the valve cover gasket needs replacement. I, however do not see any signs of oil leaking. Will keep you guys posted.

Best regards to everyone.