240 Replacing Cam Oil Seal

Hi folks...

When replacing the front cam oil seal (B21 engine), does the valve
cover have to be removed (or just the sprocket)?

If it *does* have to be removed, should I fit a new valve cover
gasket?

Allan.

 

No it doesn't, but if you do remove the camshaft cover for some reason a new
gasket is not absolutely nessesary but it's a good idea.

 

Often the cam cover gasket fails where it bends as it goes up over the
cam bearing cap, especially some of the crappy aftermarket ones. This
is close to the cam seal, and a leak at this corner is often blamed on
the cam seal. I'd suggest a new valve cover gasket and cam seal.
Taking off the front cam cap makes changing the seal very easy. Also
put some gasket sealer between the cap and the head when reinstalling
it.

 

Thanks!

 

There's no actually leak yet - I'm just doing a lot of work at the
front of the engine, and thought I'd change the seals while they're
easy to get to. New waterpump, thermostat, radiator rodded out,
radiator hoses, V belts, oil change, engine mounts, timing belt, etc.

Thanks!