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How to Install a Balance Shaft Seal

Balance shaft seals are rubber O-rings that seal in oil in and around the primary pulley belt arm in many vehicles. These typically degrade as the vehicle approaches 100,000 miles, roughly at the same time the belts need replacement. Installing one of these is not overly difficult, provided you know where to look and have the right tools.

Instructions

1

Open the hood of the vehicle, when it is not running.

2

Locate the bolts securing the plastic or metal valve cover. Remove these bolts and set aside the cover, revealing the balance shaft.

3

Look for signs of oil leaking onto the drive shaft and timing belt. Check to see if the existing seal is visibly cracked or deformed.

4

Remove the nut holding the timing belt. Slide the belt and pulley off the shaft, taking care not to lose the pulley in the engine compartment.

5

Look for a small metal plate securing the seal in place. Remove this with the appropriate screwdriver to gain access to the seal itself.

6

Slide a small standard screwdriver between the case and seal. Gently pop out the old seal. Expect a little oil to come out behind it; this is normal.

7

Coat the new seal with bearing grease. Slide the new seal in place, ensuring that it goes in evenly to prevent future leaks.

8

Screw the retaining clip back over the seal. Slide the pulley back on the arm, securing it with the bolt and ratchet.

9

Bolt the valve cover back in place to complete seal replacement.