pityocamptes

A few months ago I took my honda in (1998 Civic EX) to a reputable mechanic, ex NASCAR mechanics/drivers, and had them replace the timing belt, water pump, tensioner, cam and crank seals - I provided the Honda genuine parts from Majestic Honda. I started to notice after a few weeks a slight oil leak coming from the front side of the engine (cam/crank side). I looked at it more closely and it seems that the oil is coming out from under the timing cover right beneath the water pump gear/plastic bulge in timing cover, and leaking down into the alternator bracket area. I have not had time to get back into the mechanic due to work, etc. but the leak has not progressed any further, just a slight drip that makes the spot on the driveway grow...

I replaced the valve cover seal the other day, and cleaned everything off, but the leak is back. I plan on picking up some oil dye today, and try to locate where the leak is coming from. I suspect perhaps the cam seal as looking at the engine schematic I can't seem to locate anything else, besides the cover and seal, that would leak about half way up the timing cover.

I have heard that the cam and crank seals are very close in size to each other. If this is true and they accidently swapped seals, would you get a slight leak from the cam or would it be major? Also, if they did swap seals by accident would they necessarily need to change the crank seal if it is not leaking?

I will probably take it back to the mechanic, but any suggestions on possible leaks in that area would be helpful to pass on. I have the feeling that the mechanic really does not want to rip into the front side again and possibly have to eat it. Thoughts? Thanks!

vtechjunkie

iTrader: (2)

Sounds like a cam seal. Hard to tell without seeing it though.

pityocamptes

Thats what I was thinking. I could do it, but don't have time, and hate working on cars...