Hi,

Yes I have replaced the shaft seal on a Zexel compressor. Mine is DKS-15CH. Diesel-Kiki/Zexel and more recently Seltec/Tama compressors are all of the same family. Just name changes during company restructuring over the years.

The short way is by using special tools. As the tools themselves require some considerable investment, I replaced the seal via the long way by dismantling the compressor. And it wasn't easy. Not for a first timer.

Replacing the shaft seal was only about half of the challenge. Sealing back the compressor was another. The old shaft seal was VERY tightly fitted in compressor. Next I found that my new seal was of the latest variety which wasn't as thick as the old one. This new seal needed a spacer washer during installation but I managed it nevertheless. I even had to re-torque the compressor head bolts thrice - on the bench, one week and two weeks later in the car after seeing some oil leak coming from the front compressor plate/manifold. And I did use Nylog which seems to be the "in-thing" for O ring lubrication during resealing but oil did leak. The torque value was given between 15 to 25 lb-ft so naturally I tried the lowest setting first. And I did make sure there was no oil in the bolt holes prior to resealing.

In short its easier just to send it to the shop to get these done or get a new compressor. DIY may not be worth your time.

Regards,
Amarin.