So I was poking around the engine in my 99 OBS. after pulling out one of the plug wires / grommet I noticed a bit of oil in the gap between the head and block. I check three of the four plugs and they all seem to have same issue. I also notice hot oil smell from engine as well.

What could be problem?

spark plug tube grommets are leaking oil.  see how the spark plugs go through the valve covers - there are gaskets there to prevent the exact issue you're having.  very common.

 

replace the valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube gaskets at the same time.  i've seen some Fel Pro kits have both of those included.

Thank you.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/98-12-Subaru-Impreza-Legacy-Outback-Forester-2-2L-2-5L-Valve-Cover-Set-EJ22-EJ25-/281098480635?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3ASubaru&hash=item4172c66bfb&vxp=mtr

 

the gasket on the left side of the photo shows the spark plug tube grommets "inside" of it - that's just for reference - verify the part numbers you need, though i think that may be the right one.

Edited October 23, 201312 yr by grossgary

sure thing.  i dislike those spark plug tube grommets, extra failure/leakage point, but not hard to replace at all.

 

very helpful to have a 10mm ratcheting wrench for the lower drivers side bolt...but not that hard of a job at all.

Thank you again. That is very helpful. I will be checking YouTube for DIY video. God I love the internet.

GG. I managed to get the gaskets / grommets (Fel Pro) at Auto zone at a reasonable price. The place i usealy goto cost about 20% more for same thing.  

 It went pretty smoothly, took me about 3 hours to complete. The hardest part was getting to the back bottom bolt on both sides.

The left valve cover was a bit tricky too manuver out / in but I just took my time. Takeing out the battery and wiper jug helped alot.

Thanks again for your help.

 

99 Outback Sport

AKA Gary

excellent, good job!

 

that's what I meant about those 10 mm ratcheting wrenches, those lower bolts are difficult without one.  on some Subaru engines they're even worse, like 6 cylinders.

I got the Fel-Pro full valve cover gasket kit.  Going to put it in why I have access to a lift.  guessing it will be easy on the lift.

Usually none-oe Bucket Gaskets usually leak, its one of fthe few arts where OE is better. 

 

Also you will need new wires as the engine oil damages the silicon in the wires.

 

If it has never been done replace your PCV valve too, as it takes some stress off the seals.

I got the Fel-Pro full valve cover gasket kit.  Going to put it in why I have access to a lift.  guessing it will be easy on the lift.

Slightly maybe. But the way to really make it easy is to unbolt exhaust at the heads and one motor mount at a time. After each mount is unbolted, jack under oil pan and the engine will tilt up on one side making that valve cover easier to remove.

Nipper, thanks for the insight.  I will get the OE ones.  Also I bought replacement Import Direct wires from O,Riley's.  PCV was cleaned out recently. 

My 08 legacy(2.5)  has oil around the plug tubes. About how much will my local mechanic charge me for this job? thanks,