Front end seals?

[conkeytonk]

After purchasing the Arnworx tools, a quarter-inch torque wrench, all four belts, tensioners and rollers I think I’m ready to complete the front end engine belt job on my 87 NA. I feel like I should replace some of the seals as well but am not quite sure which ones to purchase. There are kits but that might be overkill. Could anyone recommend which seals to replace while the front of the engine is apart?

[bleu951]

If they are not leaking, i would leave them alone. No way to know until you remove the covers.

If they are leaking, chances are good that the races will be grooved and need to be replaced. Here is a list i have developed over the years. Use it at your own discretion.

Front Engine re-seal parts list for 1987 and later 8 valve 2.5 liter engines


Camshaft

1 each O-ring 999.701.602.40
1 each Woodruff key (optional) 900.117.045.00
1 each O-ring (flat mylar washer) 944.105.321.00
1 each Spacer 928.105.139.04
1 each Seal 999.113.349.40
1 each Bolt (optional) 999.510.022.08
1 each Toothed roller 944.105.631.04
1 each Smooth roller 944.105.241.03
1 each Rubber seal 928.105.184.00


Crankshaft

1 each Seal 999.113.331.50
1 each Sleeve (oil pump drive) 944.107.161.02
1 each O-ring 999.707.283.40
1 each Woodruff key (optional) 900.117.036.00


Balance shafts

1 each Seal (upper, cw rotation) 999.113.282.40
1 each Seal (lower, ccw rotation) 999.113.281.40
2 each Spacer 928.105.139.02
2 each O-ring (same as cam) 944.105.321.00
2 each O-ring 999.701.652.40
2 each Woodruff key (optional) N 012.708.2
1 each Tensioner roller 944.102.025.07
1 each Smooth roller 944.102.277.06
2 each Locknuts N .022.149.0
2 each Washers N .011.527.12

Water pump

1 each Water Pump 951.106.021.10
1 each Water Pump Gasket 944.106.132.04
1 each Block off plate (NA only) 944.106.313.00
1 each O-ring 999.707.283.40
2 each Bolt 6 x 20mm (optional) N .014.704.1
2 each Washer (optional) N .011.524.7
1 each Thermostat 944.106.019.00
1 each Support Washer 900.234.160.00
1 each T-stat O-ring 944.106.929.08 or
944.106.929.05
The two items below are only required if the car has never been updated or the parts are damaged or missing
1 each Guard rail (for updated pump) 944.105.210.01
2 each Lock nuts (for guard rail) 999.084.092.02


Notes:

1. Spacers and oil pump sleeve should be replaced if they have wear grooves, or burrs which could damage a new seal. Use some fine
grade scotch brite to clean up the old ones, but replace them if in doubt.
2. The front crank seal is difficult to install perfectly. I use an old crank gear and oil pump sleeve that I honed the center bore of, and
use these two with the crank bolt to press the seal in squarely until flush with the oil pump face.
3. The balance shaft front housings must be removed to properly reseal them.
4. Oil seals and o–rings must be thoroughly lubricated before installation.

[conkeytonk]

Impressive list Keith, thanks.

There is a slight oil leak somewhere on the front end of the motor so I expect to have to replace some seals. After reading your notes I can only hope the front crank seal is solid.

She’s not a daily driver so I’ll take your advice, break her apart then determine what to purchase.

[EMBPilot]

great post Keith!
Conkey, when you do this please try and post a write up!! i'll be doing my belts sooner than later....

[conkeytonk]

Can do EMB,

I’ll include some pics as well. After reading Haynes, Clark’s, my .PDF shop manuals, and Arnworx directions It really does not seem that hard, just tedious.

Are you not the member that suggested a belt-changing party?

[EMBPilot]

LOL i am! got a very small one lined up with a very helpfull pelican member. he said all i had to do was bring the strippers.

[bleu951]

the front seal is not that difficult to replace, but there is max oil pressure behind it, so it is more prone that others to leak. I hope my explanation of the home made seal press is clear enough. If not, i can probably rig up something for a picture.

[conkeytonk]

I should know by the end of the weekend if the front seal is leaking and may take you up on you kind offer if needed. Again, thanks Keith.