I have experienced only one complete seal failure in which the seal failed dramatically and resulted in considerable loss of fluid in a short time. The O ring at the top of the oil cooler on my 87 Vanagon, on a very cold morning, failed. I replaced that O ring and just had to replace it again after an interval of 11 years. But, there is always the possibility of a seal, which is normally not under pressure, splitting against a rotating shaft. There is the chance of a seal cracking due to age and causing a considerable leak. This could happen at the ends of the push rod tubes. Rico Dagastino Memphis, TN
In a message dated 3/13/2010 12:51:37 A.M. Central Standard Time, starwagen@GMAIL.COM writes: A friend has oil leaks from the seals on her 1.9 L. Question is, if the leaks are small (getting some spray in the engine compartment?) can those seals have a sudden, complete failure and really endanger the engine or can she limp along for some time and just make sure the oil level is kept up? |
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