Hello all, it's been a while since I've been the forum and it's good to be back.

So my car is a 98' ex with a y7 block but vtec head so I suppose it's the "mini me" swap with auto trans.

The issue I am having is over the last few month my car has developed an oil leak on the driver's side under the timing cover, it's actually fairly severe. Something to the tune of 1/2 a quart low a week.

Can anyone tell me what commonly causes an oil leak down there that severe? Also if I do the timing bet and water pump should I purchase a lot for a y7 or a y8? I drive this car every day so I can't have the timing belt being contaminated or thrown. Any help is appreciated!

 

camshaft seal likely

 

I ordered one up, after watching a few videos seems simple enough if one doesn't change the timing belt out.

Would it be advisable to replace the timing belt and water pump while I'm in there? I have had no other issues to speak of, just the oil leak.

 

Yes... and the front main seal as well. Don't forget the tensioner and tensioner spring while you are in there.

 

I would also get new bolts for the water pump. It's not fun when one of them breaks. It will leak if you don't have all the bolts secured.

 

Thanks for your responses everyone!

I ordered an item Honda tensioner spring and I am considering an NSK brand tensioner as replacement as well as an Aisin water pump. The timing belt will be bando. Does anyone have any experience with these brands? Are they a suitable replacement for this job?

 

anything made in japan is usually decent.
here's a good guide:

https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-...civic-3114911/

i'm running koyo tensioner and bando timing belt which is actually made in germany but still great quality.
watch out for gates and moog, now both made in chna. 8(