Camshaft seal installation

[Kiiii]

how did you guys install the camshaft seal? i know in the service manual, it talks about a special tool being used but i wonder if theres other methods to install it?

 

[dsmspickdad]

Are installing seals after installing cams?

 

[LiquidX]

Generally you would just pull the cams out and put the seals on then.

 

[Kiiii]

So the special tool isnt required? i ask cause the main job i'm doing is replacing my head gasket, so obviously i have to take out my camshafts...

 

[PieEyedPiper]

The special tool you're talking about is likely a Dentist's Pick. There are many substitutes but my pick worked very well getting those old seals out. I also think I may have used it to position the new seals juuuust right.

 

[1990AWD]

You don't have to remove the cams to do a head gasket but it is a good idea to do the seals like you are. Just letting you know you don't have to remove the cams if you don't want to.

 

[Kiiii]

Miller Tools MD998713 Camshaft Oil Seal Installer

its that tool im talking about

well thats what the service manual says to do.. remove the camshafts

 

[romeen]

As mentioned, you don't need to remove the cams to change a HG.

Nonetheless, you don't need the special tool to install a new one. I used a 36mm impact socket, which fit the seal perfectly, to tap it into place. I put a 1/2" extension on it and tapped the end with a rubber mallet. Make sure to put a thin layer of clean motor oil around the outside and inside of the seal before installing it. The key is to apply even pressure around the seal so that it goes in evenly and doesn't end up crooked or damaged.

If you don't have a large enough socket you can also remove the #1 cam cap (the one at the cam gear end). Then you can very easily slide the seal over the end of the cam and into place. Some like to put a very thin layer of RTV around the seal when doing it this way but it's not necessary. Then carefully replace the cam cap so that you don't pinch or damage the outer surface of the seal. Push or gently tap it down over the alignment pins and into place keeping both ends of the cap as even as possible. Make sure the seal stays in position. Torque the bolts in stages going back and forth between the two to keep the pressure on both sides as even as possible. Torque exactly to spec.