I have replaced my timing chain cover and gaskets and seals 5 months ago and about 6 weeks ago developed a leak at the main crank seal and took it all apart again--i have air-cond and power steering) which to say the least is a bitch. so i tore it all down again and replaced the seal again which was torn and replaced the timing chain while i had it apart again. put it all back together and drove it alot of short trips in the last 4 weeks and i think its starting to leek again! what would be the most obvious things causing this? the Dampner? it didnt seem to have a lip on it. getting tired of fixing the same thing.

 

I think you answered your own question. Did you lube the seal before you put the dampener on last time?

 

i put Redline Assembly lube front and back of the seal and on the Dampner neck.

 

Are you sure the leak is at the seal?

It can be hard to tell with all of the "stuff" on the front of the engine. In my experience front crank seals are not really prone to leaking.

It might be that the timing cover did not have the alignment dowels in place when it was assembled. If this is the case the timing cover could be slightly off center causing the seal to give way prematurely. This is kind of a long shot, but it may be possible.

 

make sure there is not a groove or burr worn into or on the dampner