[Whew]

Hi all, 2000 Subaru outback 2.5 SOHC Did a timing belt change with all idler pulleys and waterpump including drive shaft and both camshaft seals replaced.
Now I am selling like an oil burning while driving. I do see a slight bit of oil the timing belt cover on the right camshaft side. I am perplexed. I pressed the new seals on using socket tools. The only thing I can think of is either the seal is bad or maybe I pressed it on to far. It seemed to bottom out, like i put in all the way in it could go. Not sure if that is a good thing or bad thing. Either way, I do have what seems to be a slight oil leak on that side. Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Gary

 

[cardoc]

Gary,

If you used an aftermarket seal, it is highly likely the seal is bad due to improper fitment caused by poor manufacture. Could also be a ripple in the seal from installation. I have found the Cam and Crank seals from Subaru are your best bet.

The seal's outer edge should be flush with the cylinder head, not recessed.

 

[1 Lucky Texan]

cardoc, on seal replacement like this, do you ever clean-up the shaft with anything? emery cloth or scotchbright etc.? Are they usually smooth enough to just reassemble and go?

 

[cardoc]

Triple 0 steel wool and clean with solvent if there is a sludge build up. If there is any pitting in the cylinder head, a light coat of ultra black RTV in the head prior to insertion helps.