Variocam actuator O-ring degradation

[alexc0814]

2001 Base 2.7 130k miles

Last oil change I found plenty of green plastic in the oil filter. My car has no check engine lights, and aside from a consistent 1 second startup chain rattle that I've heard for the last 3 years/30k miles runs perfect and makes good power throughout the rev range.

Just wondering if anyone else has been in a similar situation, and basically- how long do I have until this starts to become an issue? Is it driving dependent, like if I do mostly freeway miles without much actuation does that not contribute to further degradation?

Additionally, I've scoured the forum but have been unable to find a good answer on if these can be rebuilt or not. It's definitely outside of my DIY comfort zone, so does anyone have any shop recommendations in southern CA or sacramento/bay area which have successfully done this specific job?

[pilot4fn]

For a DIY job (maybe not your case here), the VarioCam actuator seals come from Hartech in UK.
Their partner in US is Slakker Racing who do not sell the seals, but do rebuilt the actuators.

[alexc0814]

oh nice, good to know. I guess then I just have to find a shop capable of removing and replacing, which is probably a lot easier. Are there any other while you're in there's while the cam covers are off?

[pilot4fn]

Originally Posted by alexc0814

oh nice, good to know. I guess then I just have to find a shop capable of removing and replacing, which is probably a lot easier. Are there any other while you're in there's while the cam covers are off?

Same time would be important to change the VarioCam chain pads (2 in each head) and also the short chains between the cams.
IMS bearing and RMS could be done same time, since the engine would need to come out already (yes, some DYI'ers have done this engine in car, but I doubt that any shop would do it that way) - also change clutch & flywheel if not in good condition.

[alexc0814]

Ok, that's unfortunate. Guess I'll be seeing how long it takes until I get a CEL or some other symptom then