Probably sheer age. There are two things that can leak in the areas you refer to. First of course is that valve cover gasket. If it is leaking its no great challenge to replace it. If you are not mechanically inclined then take to to a competent garage and have it done. Of more difficult note is the camshaft seal which is at the top of the engine and a bit more difficult to replace. Once again you will probably want to have that done at a good garage. Best of luck.
Timing chain cover gasket
yes you have to change the pan gasket when doing the timing chain
No
Removal of the timing chain cover, timing chain, and head are needed
Yes I believe it is a timing chain as i am replacing mine tonite and it was cheap 73.00 Canadian don't forget gasket set
The timing chain follower is worn causing a slack condition in the chain. the chain oscillates and so does the timing.
it leaks oil
Although I am not a certified mechanic....hell or even a mechanic , I would say no unless the timing chain is in the way of the gasket replacement, you should be able to on most motors replace header gaskets without the removal of the timing chain. ( timing chains are usually involved with the cam/rod repair and or replacement and such)
you must remove the timing chain and head. This will then give you access to the head gasket
That engine doe's not have a timing BELT. It has a timing chain and gears. The chain and gears are about $60.00 the gasket is about $12.00 and the Labor would run about $150.00.
Typically, "timing cover and gasket" refers to timing chain (vice timing belt) equipped vehicles. Timing chains need oil from the engine for lubrication. To make this happen, there is an opening between the timing chain area and the valve camshaft area. The oil the flows into the timing chain area, then down into the oil pan. In order to keep the oil from spraying all over the rest of the engine (and having the engine break down from oil starvation), a metal 'timing cover' is installed over the timing chain and sprockets. Then, a 'gasket,' made of a soft, oil resistant material, goes between the timing chain cover and the engine block to prevent any leaks. The timing cover is bolted to the engine block and the bolts tightened to a specified torque.
Not likely. Most timing chains never wear out, and on most engines you do not have to touch the chain to remove the cylinder head.