VVTI Cam Shaft Seal Replacement?

[danthemanx07]

I am convinced my cam shaft seals are leaking - and pretty badly. Pretty sure they started after I had my timing belt and water pump redone. I probably should have had them done at that point, but they weren't leaking before. They are now though, so I have a couple of questions.

1. Anyone done this on their own? The VVTI seals are much more difficult than the non-VVTI. You have to pull the cam out to get the seal off from the back side. It looks intimidating.

2. Anyone know what the book labor time on this job is? Trying to get a bead on cost. I am sure it is pricey with the amount of work involved.

3. Anyone got a recommendation for a Toyota mechanic on the NC central coast (New Bern, Jacksonville, Newport, etc.). I am new to the area and havent used anyone over here.

Thanks!

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I usually charge about 10hrs for Cam Seals, Crank Seal, Water Pump, Timing Belt, and Drive Belt replacement.

It's a tedious job and I would stick fairly close to the FSM and make sure you clearly understand the part about dealing with the anti-chatter portion of the camshaft. But beyond that, if you can do the timing belt, cam seals aren't much more complicated.

Depending on the age/mileage of the vehicle I recommend parts a little differently. But here's a rough list for a "high mileage/age (10-15yr 150-200k) example:

-FIPG
-Oil Filter
-Drain Plug Gasket
-Radiator Cap
-Thermostat w/Gasket
-Water Pump
-Drive Belt
-Timing Belt
-Bank 1 Valve Cover Gasket
-Bank 2 Valve Cover Gasket
-[x8] Spark Plug Tube Seal
-[x18] Valve Cover Bolt Grommet
-PCV Valve w/Grommet
-Throttle Body Gasket
-[x2] Cam Seal
-Front Crank Seal
-[x4] Gallon, SLLC
-[x6] Can, Brake Clean

~Inspect & Replace Drive Belt Tensioner & Idler Pulleys (as needed)
~Inspect & Replace Timing Belt Tensioner, Tensioner Pulley, and Idler Pulley (as needed)

Hopefully that will give you a rough idea of what parts and labor should look like, give or take a little.

 

[danthemanx07]

I usually charge about 10hrs for Cam Seals, Crank Seal, Water Pump, Timing Belt, and Drive Belt replacement.

It's a tedious job and I would stick fairly close to the FSM and make sure you clearly understand the part about dealing with the anti-chatter portion of the camshaft. But beyond that, if you can do the timing belt, cam seals aren't much more complicated.

Depending on the age/mileage of the vehicle I recommend parts a little differently. But here's a rough list for a "high mileage/age (10-15yr 150-200k) example:

-FIPG
-Oil Filter
-Drain Plug Gasket
-Radiator Cap
-Thermostat w/Gasket
-Water Pump
-Drive Belt
-Timing Belt
-Bank 1 Valve Cover Gasket
-Bank 2 Valve Cover Gasket
-[x8] Spark Plug Tube Seal
-[x18] Valve Cover Bolt Grommet
-PCV Valve w/Grommet
-Throttle Body Gasket
-[x2] Cam Seal
-Front Crank Seal
-[x4] Gallon, SLLC
-[x6] Can, Brake Clean

~Inspect & Replace Drive Belt Tensioner & Idler Pulleys (as needed)
~Inspect & Replace Timing Belt Tensioner, Tensioner Pulley, and Idler Pulley (as needed)

Hopefully that will give you a rough idea of what parts and labor should look like, give or take a little.

Thanks for the input. I could kick myself for not having this done with the timing belt/WP was done, but I was crunched for time and needed my car back. Live and learn there.

I have never done the timing belt/WP. Guess there is a first time for everything though. I also need to go the valve cover gaskets too, so I could kill one bird with two stones here. If I can find a reputable mechanic, I may bite the bullet and leave this job to a pro. I have regretted 2 of the last 3 times I let a mechanic touch my car though.

Thanks again.