Okay, I've posted once about this leak and I've been getting some conflicting info, so let me re-post and throw it out to you guys. I have an 84 CJ7 with a 258. There are some enigine mods (Clifford valve cover, header - nothing real important). The Jeep all of a sudden started leaking - my mechanic said it was the rear main seal and to "just live with it". When I pressed him about replacing it - he said it wasn't worth them doing it because they have to lift the engine, pull the camshaft. When I posted that here, everyone disagreed, saying it can be done without pulling the camshaft, so I put it back in his lap. He said that "yes, it can be done, but the design of the seal is tht the camshaft has to "crush" the seal to make it leak proof. If I don't do it "the right way", he won't guarantee it won't leak. A little background: The guy is the main mechanic at a shop owned by my best friend - they do all the work at cost for me, so this isn't a case of them trying to rob me. Secondly, the guy is a Jeep/Chrysler mechanic for 20 years - he's done a ton of these at the dealership. My question is: Is he right, in everyone opinion? I don't want to pay someone to do the job and then end up with the same damn problem. Any ideas? My driveway is looking like CRAP with oil spots!!!!! Thanks in advance - Ron
84 CJ7 Oil Leak (part deux)
Oct 05, 2003
3 Replies
There is no connection between a 258's cam and the main seal. Further, it could simply be the valve cover gasket or even a loose oil filter, etc. It is not necessary to pull the engine, although on a CJ you may have to put a jack under the trans and pull one motor mount. (If he's been there for 20 years I wonder what he's been doing?)
Take it somewhere else, even if it's the rear main it's a 2-3 hour job and all you have to do is pull the oil pan and rear main bearing cap.
If you need it, it is an afternoon job in the driveway. I have done 3 in my driveway with 100% success.
But!
'Usually' a drip off the rear is caused by a leak up top. You should do yourself a favor and start the engine up, then run a clean rag around the rear of the engine head below the valve cover. My bet is you will find fresh oil there.
A valve cover is 'way' easier to fix. Sometimes all you have to do is tighten up the bolts. They like to sneak loose.
Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT'sR>
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