Waterthunder
Well-known member
This seal leak is a common problem with SBC’s and I have been P.M.ed. buy a few people over this recently. So I thought it would be a good Idea to post this info incase somebody is having the same problem.
If a front timing cover seal still leaks after replacing the seal and balancer it is usually because the timing cover is not centering properly on the crank because the dowel holes are not in the proper location in the cover. This is common with aftermarket Chrome covers. You may consider replacing the front cover, I prefer stock G.M. ones. I have come across this problem several times but it almost always occurs with an aftermarket timing chain cover and almost always with a Mr. Gasket chrome cover. During stamping they get the dowel pin holes off a little and this causes the seal not to properly locate on center. Another trick is to use the one you have and drill the locating dowel holes bigger then install the cover and balancer without tightening up the cover and use the balancer to center the cover as your pushing it on this way your seal will be centered on the crank. Be sure to oil the seal and balancer snout when you install it. Also put a small dab of silicon in the keyway slot in the balancer because oil will leak in that area also.
If a front timing cover seal still leaks after replacing the seal and balancer it is usually because the timing cover is not centering properly on the crank because the dowel holes are not in the proper location in the cover. This is common with aftermarket Chrome covers. You may consider replacing the front cover, I prefer stock G.M. ones. I have come across this problem several times but it almost always occurs with an aftermarket timing chain cover and almost always with a Mr. Gasket chrome cover. During stamping they get the dowel pin holes off a little and this causes the seal not to properly locate on center. Another trick is to use the one you have and drill the locating dowel holes bigger then install the cover and balancer without tightening up the cover and use the balancer to center the cover as your pushing it on this way your seal will be centered on the crank. Be sure to oil the seal and balancer snout when you install it. Also put a small dab of silicon in the keyway slot in the balancer because oil will leak in that area also.