Small Oil Leak

[ivass]

I found a small oil leak right on top of the corner of the right side valve cover (on top of cylinder 4). I suspect the connection between the ~3/4 inch thick hose and the engine head (see attached pic). The car is a 99 C4 6-speed. Can someone tell me what this hose is? Looks like some sort of a vent... Has anyone had problems with this before? Is it just an old o-ring, or is a cracked hose more more likely of a scenario? Any input will be highly appreciated.

Thank you,

Ivo

Edited May 1, 2008 by Loren
made image viewable

[RFM]

This tube is a part of the engine ventilation system and comes from the AOS, there is an O ring present. Disconnecting the tube and take a look for damage.

[ivass]

This tube is a part of the engine ventilation system and comes from the AOS, there is an O ring present. Disconnecting the tube and take a look for damage.

Thanks. Which way would this tube be easier to access - top or bottom? It looks like to get to it I will have to either take the right muffler off and reach it from the bottom or remove the large coolant hose and get to it from the top.

Ivo

[RFM]

From the top , pull the hose out of the way. It's the fastest way to go.

[waterboy]

I found a small oil leak right on top of the corner of the right side valve cover (on top of cylinder 4). I suspect the connection between the ~3/4 inch thick hose and the engine head (see attached pic). The car is a 99 C4 6-speed. Can someone tell me what this hose is? Looks like some sort of a vent... Has anyone had problems with this before? Is it just an old o-ring, or is a cracked hose more more likely of a scenario? Any input will be highly appreciated.

Thank you,

Ivo

That is part of the air oil separator vent line. The vent line "purges" very small amounts of oil vapors which contain oil droplets out of the engine. Over time and mileage (30,000) an oil residue will build up which may look like an oil leak. Just clean it up. Waterboy