1997 2.2l non-vtec. I recently replaced the timing & balancer belts, water pump and oil seals (& balance shaft seal retainer . I used Honda parts, but I did not have the Helm service manual before. Now I do, and it says the outside of the seals should be installed dry. Is it time for a do-over?

 

I would think that it would seal up better oiled plus give it lubrication so it does not tear when the engine is first started.

 

The repair specs call for grease on the inner part of the seals, the portion that the shaft would ride on. They actually came pregreased. I am refering to the outer part of the seal, the portion that fits inside of the bore. I'm guessing Honda wants to avoid these seals popping out like the past problem they had with the balance shaft seal.? Like you said, it does seem it would seal better being oiled. The tolerances must be pretty tight and not require oil to maintain a seal along the outside. Thanks for your input!

 

well, by putting some oil on the outside diameter of the seal it just helps you to install the seals. You shouldn't need it to help seal them, just to ease install.

You should be fine though. I can't recall if we put oil on the seals when we replaced them on the Accord but I know when I did the Civic I do know I put oil on the OD of the seals and they are fine.

 

Thanks TouringAccord. Good to know that you are having no problems with the seals on the Civic. BTW, your tutorial on the belt change was quite helpful. Thanks again

 

no problem... glad my tutorial was helpful