I had the valve cover gasket replaced on my 1992 Accord EX about 4,000 miles ago and now all along the lower part of the valve head cover itself, I notice oil that looks kind of fresh (dark black). Any ideas what could be going on? I've attached some photos.


Also about 10k miles ago, I had the timing belt, water pump, balancer belt, a/c and alternator belts replaced and now apparently there is oil around the camshaft area as shown in the up close photo. I'm pretty sure it's fresh oil and not residual oil. Not sure how common this is. I guess it's bad luck the leak happened only 10k miles after the timing belt was replaced because I read that oil leaks around that area are not good for the timing belt.

 

well first check to see if the gasket is all together
and not somehow ruined , and its ok they make a
valve cover gasket sealer that you can apply to
the gasket to strengthen up the seal and fill and
small gaps..and that should stop your leak.

 

I would start with cleaning it all with some degreaser and then drive it a while and see if it gets wet again

 

Thanks for the suggestions