Since this is about engine gelling just a few pics here to scare you people into good maintenance. This is a dealer maintaned Lexus, although I only have records over the last 7 years. Before that time I really don't know. I have allways been religious about oil-changes for the last 3 years that I have owned the vehicle: every 5 months, top quality 5W40 synthetic.
Not trying to raise discussions or issues, just sharing for interest or comment. The operation cost me a small fortune, 4000,- , but hey, it's one of only 12 ES300's in Europe, and I really love the thing.
On the first pic you can see the thing that actually made me have it openened up: a piece of the right upper vale had broken off....very noticeable when driving. The weird part though: apart from that the engine was running very smooth till then, and as said, nicely serviced, and no complaints. It really is a hidden feature, that sludge thing.
next post: after cleaning the thing.