i have a lt1 from a 97 firebird that will not stop leaking oil from water pump drive. replaced front cover,timing chain,water pump drive that bolts to block, used the factory seal installer, have had this apart and changed parts over 15 times and still leaks,
checked the pcv and crankcase for possibilitys, i have gave up and told to live with it, that is not how i like to do things. i have also seen other super and turbo lt1s leak from the same spot on the dyno. they claim it never did that before but i don't know

 

What brand seal are you using? Usually the inner lip accidentally gets "rolled" when being installed (the factory tool helps, but doesn't eliminate the issue) and this causes the leak. Make sure you are using a quality GM or Fel-pro seal and that the inner lip is not being rolled when installed.

Jeff

 

I have had problems with the same seal. 1997 Camaro LT1. Ended up installing the seal over the drive shaft after install of the timing cover. Used a deep socket the retain the seal position when installing over the shaft. There are two (2) seals. I had to push them so that they opposed each other (inside toward engine/ outside toward the rad.). A little lube helped. Did not have much of a problem after. But, I went to an electric WP drive. They sure are easy to tear-up.
1997 Camaro 383 - D1

 

2 freeze plugs, electronic water pump, and some permatex. Its called the mechanical water pump & drive delete

 

i tried every seal known to man, mostly gm and was very carefull to not roll it(know what you mean). it is not horrible but every oil change it is down almost 1/2 to 3/4 qts and front of engine is covered. dye tested and positive it is from water pump drive. the seals are oblong after removal like something is not aligned. i have replaced everything including the covers. it gets drove over 20,000 miles per year and don't want to go to a electric pump. i didn't know if anyone else had this problem