4.0L oil leak

[TJS1011]

I might buy a '01 4.0L 4X4 Ranger, it has an oil leak on the drivers side from what looks to be the area of the base of the dip stick, it leaks down onto the manifold, etc. Any clues?

 

[DILLARD000]

Oil leaking onto ExhaustManifold is likely coming from ValveCover\Gasket above;
Inspect that LeftDriverSide ValveCover carefully. If OilLeak is from crack near front of ValveCover,
indicates TimingChain has slapped\broken the ValveCover & TimingGuide may be broken due to a bad TimingTensioner.
Otherwise may just be a leaky ValveCoverGasket.

Ford V6~4.0L~SOHC Engines & 5r55e Transmissions are notorious for
* broken LeftFront & RightRear TimingGuides due to failed TimingTensioners, listen for "Death Rattle", expensive repair can require engine pull.
* broken\cracked Plastic ThermoStatHousing, look for Coolant Swamp under the IntakeManifold in the EngineV; easy swap to Aluminum Housing.
* Trans slipping while shifting thru 1~2~3 gears, due to blown out ValveBodyGasket.

 

[sebastian323]

I have a bit of a leak from the oil drain plug. Is there some sort of gasket/sealing washer I can buy for it ? New drain plug ? Or just teflon it up? I have a 1996 4.0 OHV