I’ll say NO to trying to rejuvenate the rubber on an older but NOS seal.


Had it not been for removing the harmonic damper for repair, you would not even be considering replacing the front timing seal.  If the seal was not previously leaking and the engine is running well, then it should not pose a problem in stopping at just fixing the damper.  As others have brought up, you may be opening up a Pandora’s box by going into the engine deeper than necessary when all you are trying to do is just fix a slipped damper.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

When you start tearing into these old cars, it goes on and on.

Oh boy, I better be careful when asking for suggestions..... 

Clearly, you should remove the timing cover to replace the seal. It only costs what, maybe $5?

Then - as long as you're in there - you can replace the worn & stretched timing gear set. Rollmaster makes a quality set, with adjustable keyways. So long as you're in there, might as well drop the oil pan and check those bearing clearances. And a new Oil Pump, drive rod, and N.O.S. distributor. Like as not those rocker arms and rocker shafts are getting worn, and fresh valve springs shimmed to the installed spec height will be a welcome addition to your tune. Let us know if you need more suggestions

You know the old expression "if it's not broke then don't fix it".  I would just leave it alone if it is not leaking.  Alan

Further on the subject of N.O.S rubber seals etc.. Assuming that a seal appears to be in reasonable shape, is it possible to rejuvinate it, using a product like "AGS Sil - Glide"  Lubricant, which is intended for brake parts & seals etc..?


Paul

I didn't realize that the timing cover had to come off. Is there any harm in not replacing that seal at this time? I have no sign of oil leakage from it. I can always find a couple more gaskets and replace it now if it is necessary.

Charlie, I sold my R1100S three years ago, after being knocked off an 8-foot ladder by a falling tree branch; my left collarbone and 4 ribs were broken. My 84-year-old stepfather has an R1150R (he previously owned an R100RT). Up until recently, he rode it to work regularly. Two years ago, he was pulled over for speeding (100 in a 65). The officer said that my stepfather was the oldest motorcyclist he had cited for speeding. The officer gave him a break and cited him for 78. We'll see if he continues working (by choice) and riding after heart valve replacement. 

By the way, I agree with not using NOS rubber.

I would hesitate to use NOS rubber.  It can look good but it shrinks and can fall apart pretty quickly after it is put to use.  I've seen it happen a number of times.  I've been involved with vintage BMW motorcycle parts for 2 decades, have dealt with my share of NOS for those and I no longer try to sell NOS rubber (or paper, gaskets, etc.) unless there is no other option.



Lawrenceville, GA

Make sure that the rubber in that NOS seal is still pliable and has not turned hard with age.

All 1954-1964 Ford Y-Block front timing cover seals are the same.  Be aware that the front timing cover seals are installed from the backside of the factory timing covers.  Said another way, the timing cover will need to be removed from the engine to replace that particular seal.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)