I searched for all I could find on heads for this model, a stock 1988 Integra LS plain brown wrap no mods w/ps a/c auto. 148k on orig. motor.

While working on struts-alternator, noticed copious oil and a tad of antifreeze in and around the timing cover area. Removed p/s & timing cover and cam. sprockets (dohc) to better inspect. Was what appeared to be a "light dusting" of oil/dirt residue in and around cam-seal area, (not too wet looking, mostly gunky) along with oil streaking downward (not too wet looking)on front corner near ex.manifold.

However, inside timing belt cover was junked to max and oil galore spreading just about everywhere. (including on water pump sprocket and belt, glad didn't bust that belt!!) Along with coolant from it seems the water pump. No coolant visible near heads.

However oily residue junk all along heads on that side. (possible blown back from front??) I'm wondering if that is just blowback from the leaky cam seal and/or valve cover, (recently sealed after valve adj. w/new gasket & siliconed at cam corners as is normal), or is it even possible that there would be oil out of the head/gasket area? Doesnt' seem possible there would be oil out of a head(s). Of course I know enuf about Hondas to know they're notorious for leaky valve covers, might be just that? I'm really concerned about the amount of oil built up inside the timing cover, I'm wondering if its just been collecting there forever?? It drooled all the way to the bottom.(blowing back and dropping off oil pan) Of course with everything tore up, going to be difficult to figure out the source.

I'm going to hose off the engine cleaner in the morning and take a better gander at it. Plan on new water pump, t-belt/tensioner and cam seals at a minimum, am prepared (and knowledgeable enuff) to do the heads myself as I've done '87 civic motor and Suzuki heads b/4 so no prob. there, jus wondering if that seems like overkill at this point. Car running *okay*, jus burned alot of oil (yeah think most of it inside the timing cover lol).


Would appreciate any advice on this. I know these cars have problems that are "typical" for that model/year etc.

Great forums btw!!!!

Mark.

EDIT: Forgot to add that spark plugs have been clean and are still clean, don't think the rings are leaking. Perhaps oil from valve guides leaking thru blown head gasket? ??? Someone has to have worked on this before lol.