Mike,
I am glad you are out there! I am a single mom with 2 children. I own a 1989 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder (approx. 49,000 miles). I smell somewhat of a burning smell, sometime while I am driving or after I get to my destination.
I ask one person and I was told I need a oil pan gasket.
I asked another person and I was told that I needed a valve cover gasket.
How can I know before I take my car to a mechanic what I need. I have had some bad experiences. I called (2) different places for estimates for the oil pan gasket here are the quotes-$200 &$205. I have asked about the valve cover gasket. Is it one or more gaskets. Can I still drive my car and not damage the motor? Please respond! estimates for these repairs and here are the prices $200.00 $205.00

Linda, it sounds like a valve cover leak, you should check out http://alldata.com They have an extensive library on all vehicles and it will show technical bulletins and recall notices on all cars and trucks, they also have a referral service. Hope this helps.

Mike