Changing Camshaft Adjuster Seals without draining engine oil

[muleof1999]

Is this possible? I had this work done at a local dealership, and they said that it was not necessary to drain the engine oil as the work was done on top of the engine. However, the oil that I had seen leaking was apparent from underneath the car. I guess it's possible that the oil was just dripping from the top of the engine and appeared to be coming from the bottom, but I just want to ensure that the mechanic is actually doing the work. I am not familiar with location of the camshaft adjuster seals.

[audimad]

Not sure what car/engine you have but they do not need to drain the oil on a 1.8t to change the seal/gasket. And the oil leak prob was at the rear of the engine and dripping down to the floor
It doesnt sound like you were ripped off or anything

[muleof1999]

Thanks for the info! I have a 1999 Audi A4 Quattro - 2.8 V6, and I think you're right. I put the car up on the lift and it looks pretty clean underneath and the oil level is still good. Finally, I may have found a local dealer that isn't filled with untrained monkeys.

[lonky]

There is no need to drain the oil to change these seals. They tend to be one of the sources of leaks from the engine.

Have you had the suction jet pump checked, as this is normally the route of the problem.

When the pump blocks the heads get positive pressure, and leaks appear.

3 points leak.
rocker cover gasket.
cam cover gaskets
cam shaft oil seals.

oil either runs down the side of the engine, and leaks on the road, or drips on the exhaust and fills the cabin with the wonderful smell of oil smoke