Tips for cam seal replacements

[CJ_]

So I figured I'd just make a new thread for this.. Im stuck on my build on how to do all the cam gaskets..

I bought this kit from ecs:

https://www.ecstuning.com/ES259658/

I can figure out the cam chain tensioner gaskets, but I'm stuck on the rear cam plugs and front cam gaskets. Do i just pop them out and press the new ones in? Or do I have to take the cams out?

[RocksForsSale]

YouTube has a DIY


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[zillarob]

It sounds rough, but pound a large screwdriver straight down into the edge of it and pop it out.
Do this when the vc are on or you risk cracking the channel on the head that the vcg sits in.

They make a tool for the seal, but can also drill a small hole in the face of it and pull it out with something.
Dont scratch the cam surface where it rides!

[CJ_]

So I just drill a hole though this seal, pull it out, then push the new one in? same for the ones under the cam position sensors? Do I need to oil them before I push them in?

[CJ_]

YouTube has a DIY


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do you happen to have a link? couldnt find any videos for the seals

[RocksForsSale]

Check the one for the a4 2.8 same deal, but it's mixed in there somewhere with the one 2.7 timing belt DIY


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[xalents23]

Go to the 12 minute section should help you out on that seal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOMxi5FZH_w

[aysix]

I just take off the cap, i see no point of prying it out.

[Timtheguru]

For the Cam plug on the rear: Doesn't have to be a super large screwdriver. Just a flatblade and pry, very easy and pops right out. You won't hit any of the sealing surfaces. I would definitely not use a drill on these..

Just clean up the oil in there then press it back in with your hand as hard as you can.


For the cam seals around the timing cams, I have this tool now, it works amazing and I don't touch any of the metal surfaces with it.


http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-58430-Sh...lisle+cam+seal

I use a piece of appropriately sized PVC pipe to fit over the cam (I sanded smooth the contact surface) then gently tap it in with a mallet. Goes in straight.

[CJ_]

Are there seals behind the cam position sensors? How do I do those ones?

[xalents23]

Are there seals behind the cam position sensors? How do I do those ones?

Yes, there is a seal behind it.

[vavJETTAw36]

I think I remember pulling my with an oring pick, but I don't remember it taking any effort.


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[CJ_]

any tips to get to the seal behind this?

Edit: Nvm.. I put the cam lock bar on so I didn't turn the cams then unfastened that bolt. Not sure if it was the correct way, but it worked.

[coesurf]

> For the cam seals around the timing cams, I have this tool now, it works amazing and I don't touch any of the metal surfaces with it.
>
>http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-58430-Shaft-Type->Puller/dp/B000FPYW4K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1450807326&sr=8-1&keywords=lisle+cam+seal


I tried that tool and it didn't work for me. It seems good in the videos, but I found it just tore up the seal and risked damaging the cam surface.
I went ahead and did the valve covers so I removed the bearing end cap to replace the cam seals.

[incontrol7]

im gonna have to get me that seal puller... so sweet

[Bordom]

> For the cam seals around the timing cams, I have this tool now, it works amazing and I don't touch any of the metal surfaces with it.
>
>http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-58430-Shaft-Type->Puller/dp/B000FPYW4K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1450807326&sr=8-1&keywords=lisle+cam+seal


I tried that tool and it didn't work for me. It seems good in the videos, but I found it just tore up the seal and risked damaging the cam surface.
I went ahead and did the valve covers so I removed the bearing end cap to replace the cam seals.

So, to clarify, you do not need to install the cam lock bar when doing the cam seals at the back of the head? I can just remove the end cap?

[zillarob]

So I just drill a hole though this seal, pull it out, then push the new one in? same for the ones under the cam position sensors? Do I need to oil them before I push them in?

Flathead screwdriver, straight down on the protruding edge of the cap is by far the most common way of removing them.
It does seem a little medieval, but simple, and effective. Not going to hurt anything as long as you do it with the cover on.
Clean the bore that the cap sits in. You can put it in dry, but I like to put a little silicone goop on them to lube them up on the way in Just enough to fill the ribs around it.


The seals are a little tougher. I wouldnt risk scratching the sealing surface with any tool you have to jam under the lip.
I have the specific tool made for doing them, and still makes me a little nervous. Its kinda like a hollow easy out that slides over the cam, threads under the lip, and pulls them out.
The shade tree mech way of doing it is to drill a few small holes in the face of the seal, thread screws into the holes, and pull on the screws.
The face of the seal is a rubber covered metal cup. Keep the holes toward the outside edge and you should be fine.

To lube, or not to lube, that is the question. Its really up to you so whatever gives you the warm fuzzies. People are going to get crazy and technical about this, but bottom line, it works fine both ways.
I push them in with my thumbs. It is a little tough, but I am strong like bull Something like Tim mentioned is a good option also. Pretty much anything that sits toward the outer edge of the seal to tap them in will work.