I`ve always noticed that the area around my timing cover was surprisingly dry.
About six weeks ago after installing new ignition points I accidently left a 3/8 inch breaker bar and socket (used to rotate engine by hand) on the crankshaft bolt. It was getting dark, had a couple of household distractions and interruptions, etc. Bottom line: I forgot it was still on there. Sparkplugs were out so when I had my son spin the engine to check dwell angle it didn`t start, but the breaker handle met with something immovable and loosened the bolt. The pulley (which is the aftermarket type for AC) didn`t seem to have been displaced. The bolt was a turn or so loose and I just re-torqued it.

Today I noticed evidence of oil seepage. Could I have damaged something or was it just time for what I think is the original felt seal to begin seeping? I know that prop strike with an aircraft can damage a crankshaft, but those things are splined to the crankshaft. To my knowledge I just loosened the bolt.

In any case, looks like I`ll be upgrading to a neoprene seal and probably replace the cam gear.

What do you think? Anyone had any experience with the IPD cover and seal?