Sorry, it's not the prettiest engine atm...

I checked the oil cap for a white residue (indicating the head gasket); it's clean. Also, that's dry, not wet.

So is this just an issue with the exhaust manifold gasket? Thanks for the reply.

 

Yes, it looks like you have an exhaust leak there. Are the nuts tight?

 

bigtimegambler to the rescue... thanks. I haven't tried to tighten them only because I don't have a proper torque wrench (I read it was 23ft lbs. on each). My boss has one; I'll see if that helps.

btw: just because I wanted you to see what you're helping me upgrade:



Next month will be my 20th year owning her.

 

Immaculate. Congratulations on such a milestone.

 

Thanks. She's part of the family. Recently she's been begging for some attention.