Buying used T4R - what might oil on engine block indicate?

Hi all,

I'm looking at buying a '96 4runner

I drove and inspected it, and it seems to be in great shape. It's the 4cyl & manual, so I don't have to watch out for timing belt/pink milkshake issues.

The only thing that stood out to me was accumulation of oil on the engine block (pictured below). Head, manifold, etc are clean.

I asked around and heard it could be from leaky valves/gaskets, or possibly from the crimp on the oil pressure sending unit. Owner's mechanic said it was weep (not sure where from).

Do you folks have any other insight? What's likely? What's the worst case scenario? Any easy way to verify the cause?

p.s. automotive noob here, if there's errors or ambiguity in what I said let me know and I'll correct/clarify.

 

looks like the timing cover (if it even has one) is leaking

 

It's hard to tell for sure by your picture, but if I had to guess...I'd agree with wnelax04sr5. More than likely it's the timing cover...definitely not a deal breaker. You could drive it like that forever...as long as you kept an eye on the oil level. The only negative besides possible oil stains in the driveway...is a greater chance of fire, which is still very slim. I myself would have to repair/clean it...the sight of all that oily mess would just drive me nuts!! I have a little OCD, I guess...lol!!

Good luck with your purchase...

- Russel

 

Much obliged yall!