1982 Mercruiser 470 Cam Seal Testimonial and Question.

[wrestling coach]

I am not the original owner but my cam seals started leaking out the weep hole last week of my 1982 motor. With the help of a Merc mechanic we tore it down to find what we believed to be the original cam seals. Not bad for 34 year old motor. In addition the cam snout was almost perfect. No grooves. Just touched it up with some emory cloth and installed new seals. How do some cam snouts get so damaged they require sleeves yet mine was almost perfect. I expected the worst but found the best. Love this little motor.

 

[achris]

I suspect you're working on a 470. Please confirm.

 

[wrestling coach]

Yes a 470

 

[achris]

.... How do some cam snouts get so damaged they require sleeves yet mine was almost perfect.....

It could come down to the quality of oil and how frequently it's changed, how often the engine is run (seal being run 'dry' before pressure is up after a long sit), or just plain 'Luck of the draw'. :noidea:

Chris....

 

[Pete104]

It could come down to the quality of oil and how frequently it's changed, how often the engine is run (seal being run 'dry' before pressure is up after a long sit), or just plain 'Luck of the draw'. :noidea:

Chris....

And never overheated. Just used on Sunday to go to church & ya-da ya-da!

 

[achris]

And never overheated. Just used on Sunday to go to church & ya-da ya-da!

Must be the same church I worship. Union of Ichthyologists. :rofl: