Have my mini apart to check a few things/replace:

1. Fan
2. Clutch/flywheel

anyways took it apart since I had some time and don't drive it everyday, and after I removed the radiator I saw a pretty thick layer of sludge caked on. Well its in an sloppy oval shape. Just wondering what you guys might think it is. the layer seems to be pretty dry. But might just be a very slow leak? Thnking oil pan gasket?

Picture below:

the plastic black part is the manifold on the top left.
Rusted hose is coming from the left from the water pump.
and the middle is where the engine and the transmission are mounted together.

this doesn't go too much further in any other direction. Pictured is the main area.

Sprayed a spray for removing grease and the metal behind it looks almost brand new!

anyways have it apart right now, and might as well see what needs to be done to remedy this and if anyone has any insight.

 

Ohh and also, I see considerably more amount of carbon on cylinder 2 and 3(equal amounts) than 1 and 4. Well not the actual cylinders but looking at where the intake manifold meets the head. Is that normal?

 

The crank position sensor is leaking in post #1, the O-ring can be replaced but it won't be long before it weeps again. You could put RTV sealant around it; I ignore mine since I know the source and nothing is broken.

 

...and to replace this O-ring, the bumper and radiator must be removed?

 

Service mode; extend the radiator support.

 

It looks like a small amount of oil, with many miles of road grime, dust, and gunk.
If it wasn't dripping oil, and the sludge wan't oily to the touch, I would be inclined to ignore it, and monitor the area.