jhakewill

Thanks for the comments! I'm hoping the new seals will work better, and that the problem was just that the old ones got pushed in and out a few times. The seals were genuine Subaru parts btw, as are the replacements. James

Hi All, Back in march I rebuilt the top end of the 2.5L motor in my girlfriend's 96 Legacy Outback - including replacing the camshaft oil seals. After a couple of months, it started pouring oil from the bottom of the timing cover - just after the motor was stopped. Having now pulled it apart again, it seems that three of the four camshaft oil seals had come out of their holes - either partially or completely. The oil was coming from the exhaust cam on the left-hand bank. When I put the motor together, I did mistakenly put sealant around the oil seals before putting them in - my stupidity plus the confusing service manual. After realising my mistake, I removed them (by taking out the cams), cleaned up the holes and re-inserted. (Using a big socket for those that are interested). So now I'm not sure exactly *why* they popped out - I can think of these reasons (in my order of preference): 1. The oil seals suffered from being removed and refitted. 2. The holes for the oil seals had some residual goop which allowed them to slide out. 3. Maybe the holes in the head are oversize - the old seals go in pretty easily. 3. Maybe I didn't put grease on the lips when I put them in. 4. Something plugging up an oilway, thus blowing out the seal. 5. Pixes living in the timing cover. Suggestions on why they came out, and how to make sure they stay in would be welcome.. Thanks, James