The timing cover seals the front of the engine around the timing drive. On many engines it also contains coolant passages or supports the water pump, so leaks can be oil, coolant or both.
Common Leak Points
- The front crankshaft seal behind the harmonic balancer.
- The timing cover gasket or sealant joint.
- Joints where the cover meets the head and oil pan.
- Coolant passages on covers that carry coolant.
Repair Tips
- Inspect the balancer snout for a groove worn by the seal.
- Install a new front seal square using the correct tool.
- Clean all surfaces and follow sealant instructions at the head and pan joints.
- Align the cover on its dowels before tightening.
- Replace timing components that are worn while the cover is off.
Evergreen Parts
Evergreen offers timing chain components identified by engine or vehicle application. Use the Evergreen eCatalog to find the right part, and see where to buy Evergreen through our authorized distributors.

