Camshaft Oilseal - Leak?

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
2

I’m still investigating the annoying oil leak my 1990 UK 1.6 is suffering. The leak is from the right side of the engine, is definately not the CAS, cam cover gasket or dipstick O ring) I have though I think made some progress. Having finally got down to removing the camshaft pulleys and the seal back plate I may have found the problem!?

Behind the seal plate and the thermostat housing are some rubber gaskets. These were caked in oil. There was also evidence of leakage on the front face of the head (behind the seal plate). Obviously just above this area are the 2 pulleys and their oil seals. Under each seal (just below the rubber) is fresh oil.

My query to the more experienced (than me!) engineering folk out there is does this sound like I just need to replace the 2 camshaft oil seals, clean up, rebuild and job done or is the oil build up usual in this area? The rubber gaskets were (even prior to dismantling) loose and not seated correctly. (Also any ideas on a source and price for replacements?)

Thanks guys

Tim

3

Sounds like the cam seals are leaking to me. Replace them have a clean up and all should be well. The seals in the timing belt plates tend to swell when in contact with the engine oil so change them. You can get replacements from Mazda or the usual suspects.

4

Robbie - thanks again for advice. Cam seals on order. The seals you mention on timing belt plates - are these the rubber items running along the edges?

Thanks

Tim

5

Yes the ones on the edges, are they not the ones you refered too also?

6

Robbie - Yes, just confirming terminology!

Thanks