Any pros, experts, please weigh in with your opinions;
I am about to install a new front exhaust cam oil seal, and would like to know (best as you can tell from these pictures) if this "seat" is scored significantly enough to require an additional adhesive or sealant application.

I am concerned that without using some kind of adhesive, the new seal will leak if the scoring is too severe. A N D IF I should use some sort of sealant or adhesive... WHAT should I use; Threadlocker? Gasket Maker? etc.

Several days ago I encountered a problem getting my front exhaust cam oil seal removed, and then posted a thread here.

Basically, I concluded that the last person who installed the seal must have used some sort of adhesive because what I encountered was particularly rare and difficult. The old seal would only come off in pieces by being scraped off with picks and small screw drivers. I did my best to minimize any scoring of the surfaces, being more particular with the cam shaft, knowing that I too could use an adhesive around the "seat" if necessary (keeping in mind the camshaft will need to rotate within the seal, while the seal to seat surface will remain stationary and could conceivably be "glued").

Naturally, I would rather not use any sealant because getting this last one off was a bear! I could always go without, and then if it leaks, go back in and use a new seal and sealant then, but if it is clear to any of you that this WILL leak absent sealant, I would go ahead and use some as you would prescribe now.

Thanx for your time and input... I will follow this with other pics

Click here for a larger image.
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1995 850T Wagon 120k