Hey guys, I'm a newbie to theFord diesel. I've had a cummins for the past 12 years and got a decent deal on a early 04 in San Antonio in Jan. I saw oil leaks when I got it and thought it was just the GP buss bar. I replaced the plugs and bars and cleaned it up. Now I am seeing oil right at the head gasket and running down the back sides of the block. There are no other signs of hd gskt leaks: antifreeze or the way it runs. Could it be just the gskt or is there something else I need to look at? Next question I haven't been able to figure out, can the heads be pulled in the truck or do I need to pull the motor or cab? Thanks for any help. I love the truck - it sure beats the tar out of the old Dodge! I just want to make it reliable so I'm not worrying every time I drive it.

 

I've been trying to research as much as possible. Could this be a HPOP leak? I haven't had any hot start issues, but yesterday it started hard the first time. It was in a 65* garage. When it first cranked, it sounded like it was starting then died immediately. Could it all be tied together or maybe 2 separate issues? Again, can head gaskets/studs be done in the truck?

Thanks for any ideas and help.

Dave

 

I think it would be pretty rare for head gaskets to leak oil externally. So I have to think the oil is coming from somewhere else. Like the valve covers, the ICP sensor (very common on the '03 and early '04), the turbo, or the HPOP. Keep looking to find the leak before you condemn the HG. Most HPO leaks that you see discussed here are not external leaks. But there can be leaks round the pump too.

The one incident of hard start could also be ICP related. So take a close look at that sensor and pigtail.

 

My bad, its not the head gasket, its the rocker carrier to head gasket. Everything on top is completely dry. The only oil is on both sides, mostly on the back half but some up front. After cleaning and just enough of a drive to get the temps up, you can really see it. Its not valve covers.