1997 Geo Tracker - Timing Cover Camshaft Seal

Replacing a Camshaft Seal

A camshaft seal, also known as a cam seal, is a component used to prevent oil leakages from around the camshaft housing. The cam seal is located between the cylinder head and the valve cover to seal the front or rear of the camshaft in overhead cam engines where it fits into the engine block or cylinder head. As the camshaft rotates, it generates significant internal oil pressure, and the seal ensures that this pressure remains contained within the engine. Like all seals, the camshaft seals may eventually wear out, crack, and leak oil. If a cam seal begins to leak, it can cause oil loss near the front or back of the engine under the valve cover. This may also cause smoking in the engine bay, as the oil may land on hot parts of the engine or exhaust. Any oil leak should be taken seriously, as a lack of oil can severely damage the internal parts of your engine and may result in catastrophic failure or a blown head gasket. It is often recommended that any time the valve cover is removed, the valve cover gaskets and camshaft seals also be replaced to ensure a lasting repair. If you need to replace a camshaft seal, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts, where we carry a selection of new camshaft seals, valve cover gaskets, and engine seal kits for a complete engine repair.