Evening gents, I'm inneed of assistance from the knowledge and expierence from ya'll;
I've got an oil leak. Not a pronounced leak as I'm not "marking my spot" nor is there a noticeable loss on the dip stick. But I've still got a leak and it's 'blowing back' onto one of my catalytic converters causing a noxious "burned oil" smell to infiltrate my truck. Has anyone had this issue? Does anyone have a suggestion as where to focus my investigation? Looks like the oil pan had been removed, could it be as "simple" as torquing the pan bolts?

I slid under and took some photos to hopefully assist. I've got "fresh" oil hanging in spots from the front of the engine to the starter, part of me is thinking the leak is on the front of the engine and with the fan and general airflow from driving the oil is being blown backward onto the catalytic converter.

Thanks for any and all input.

2001 Explorer Sport Trac 4L V6 Auto

 

First thing I do is take a 3/8 ratchet/ extension and socket, and check the oil pan bolts. Gaskets can take a set and loose torque. Don't overtighen and squeeze the gasket... just check if bolts are TIGHT and tighten each maybe 1/2 a turn.

 

Also on the 8th and 9th pic looks like you have oil coming down the side from up top somewhere...