I'm replacing the timing chain in my '64 Valiant and am thinking about replacing the timing gear cover with the newer style that allows you to change seals without removing the cover. Does anyone have any opinions about which is the better design?

The seal is of a totally different design than the original I removed. My manual only shows the old style, so I'm not sure which way the seal should be installed. I'm assuming it's with the closed side out on the new style cover and if that's the case, it should be the same on the old style. Right?

lancer_41@excite.com

How often do you replace your front seal? that often? ;-{)} Seriously, if the seal is installed correctly, it should last a very long time, and by the time it's worn out, you probably have other leaks in the area that would want fixing at the same time. I wouldn't worry about it. The '67-up covers have the welded-on timing marks over on the distributor side of the engine, which is a real advantage if you have A/C or P/S or Dutra Duals (or all of the above). If you do decide to use a later cover, remember you also need a '67-'75 vibration damper that has the timing mark in the right place to work with the "other side" timing tab.
:
: the old style, so I'm not sure which way the
: seal should be installed.

The original seals have a flared edge that clearly shows which way is which. New seals don't.
:
: I'm assuming it's
: with the closed side out

Look closely at the seal. You may see a spring ring around the outside of the rubber sealing element. If so, this spring ring needs to face the INSIDE of the engine. If no spring ring, look for an extended "lip". This lip needs to face the INSIDE of the engine. Another way to think about it: Visualise crankcase pressure pushing on the seal. It needs to push the seal harder against the damper shaft, NOT push its way past the seal and to the outside.

Also note, if your vibration damper or your chosen replacement has a groove worn in it from the seal, the new seal won't work well. You can buy a repair sleeve that gets pressed/driven onto the damper shaft to repair this groove.

DS

on the new style
: cover and if that's the case, it should be
: the same on the old style. Right?


redbear@vrx.net