Although it's certainly easier to replace the
Camshaft oil seals with the camshafts removed from their housings on 1982 through 1986 models or from the
Cylinder Head on 1987 and later models, the seals can be replaced with the camshafts installed in the cylinder head. Begin by removing the
Crankshaft Pulley, the
Timing Belt covers, the timing belt, and the camshaft sprockets. Next, take off the No. 2 timing belt cover, which is the stamped metal plate behind the camshaft sprockets. Using a pick or screwdriver, carefully pry the oil seal out of the camshaft housing on 1982 through 1986 models or the cylinder head on 1987 and later models, ensuring not to scratch the camshaft or the seal bore. To install the new seal, apply multi-purpose grease to the entire outer edge and the lip of the seal, then use a seal driver, a short section of pipe, or a large socket and a hammer to tap the new seal into the camshaft housing or the head, making sure it is seated properly. Finally, installation is the reverse of removal, and after starting the engine, check the camshaft housings for oil leaks.