Oil leak question for engine builders
 

How common on complete rebuilds are oil leaks from the front timing chain cover seals? Reason I asked I had 2 engines completely rebuilt and both engines leaked around the front seal. I my past experience seals are relatively easy to install. These were leaking as soon as we put the engines in the boat, but it was said they didn't leak on the dyno. Also I'm not talking just a drop or two over the weekend, more like 1/4 quart over the weekend (which makes a terrible mess in the freshly painted bilge). I'm not going to mention the builder right now, just wanted opinions. Yep you guessed it, they won't answer calls or text.

Does not make sense to me !

Are you saying from the crank seal where the balancer goes on ?

You're talking about the seal around the balancer correct? The fel pro ones that were great for years are now trash. Dont know why. We switched to cometic and never had another problem. I replaced two fel pros on the dyno last year. Another builder and good friend of mine has had similar issues. Also, it helps to keep the timing cover loose when you install the balancer so it centers itself correctly. Tough sometimes depending on the cover and how tight the dowell pins are. Almost impossible with a Gen VI block.

Yes that’s he one. Here’s a couple pictures.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...9e9569fcd.jpeg
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...1ba925354.jpeg

I just replaced both of my front seals because they leaked although not quite as bad as OP is claiming. I wish I knew to leave the timing covers loose for better centering. I have GEN V blocks and I bought Milodon aluminum timing chain covers. I had trouble holding the engine while I torque the harmonic balancer bolt. What do you guys do to keep the engine from rolling over while you torque the bolt? I have to redo the bolt install because I found out that its a good idea to apply a little RTV to the washer and the bolt to help ensure they don't leak.

What engine is it, pan capacity.......are the engine over full of oil

Make sure the crankcase breather isn't blocked.

I think we are good now. We replaced both seals and everything looks good.

The motors are not over filled with oil.

I mainly was asking since the builder won’t take my calls or texts. Maybe I’m thinking wrong (I don’t believe so) that the engine builder would step up and take care of the cost to fix them.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...419bff6cb9.jpg