Timing cover leak - worth changing cam?

[asd2001]

So big leak and suspect timing cover... car has done c50k and not had a cam replacement. How much extra work involved in doing the cam at the same time? Not obviously needing done - would appreciate views if worth getting done at the same time.

[Steve_D]

Where is the leak?
What fluid is leaking? (could be oil or coolant)

Crank seal can be done without removing the timing cover.
Timing cover can be removed without removing anything inlet/rocker/cam related.
If the leak is above the timing cover it could be the valley gasket in which case the inlet etc will come off then the cam can be inspected.

If we are talking oil then the oil pressure switch is a common leak as it has a metal body with a plastic section and the leak comes from the joint between metal and plastic..very simple and cheap fix so you really need to do more work on identifying exactly where the leak is.

Steve

[asd2001]

Should have been clearer, sorry. Coolant leak, appears to be from timing cover gasket.
Thanks

[Steve_D]

Well as I said you still need to be sure where the leak is. Some of the bolts thread into the water jacket so if they have not been sealed when installed the leak could be coming from the bolt head.
If it is the gasket then the cover has to come off (or just the bolts tightened. The ones near the top as that is where the water passages are) but that still does not go near being able to do the cam so Unless you have reason to suspect the cam then leave well alone.

Steve

[Belle427]

Timing gasket isnt too bad a job but cam change gets a lot more involved as suggested.
It’s worth checking the cam but other than inspecting it I think your looking at measuring lift which is best left to someone with a bit of experience.
My cam was in very good condition at 75000 miles and believed to be original.