Cam Syncro Leaking Oil/Defective?

[NOLA '98Ranger]

Have any of you guys heard of a cam syncro leaking oil? Bad o-ring or something.

Few months ago I changed out the cam syncro on my '98 Ranger 3.0. Now after tracking down an oil leak I believe the cam syncro is leaking oil through the top of the thing and from under the sensor. Not on the surface of the engine where it is mounted.

Don't remember if I lubed the thing before install or not. Would this ruin the seals?

Also, is it safe to drive in this condition? Will it fail causing major damage?

Napa says that I can exchange the syncro because it is still under warranty. Just going to be a PITA getting there with no vehicle. Public transportation.

One more thing. Should I be using RTV or some other type of sealant when mounting?

Thanks in advance.

 

[kawasakiman27]

Get a Motorcraft synchronizer. All the others are junk!

 

[NOLA '98Ranger]

Just changed out the synchro. NAPA took the old one back with no receipt, box, nothin'. They really came through. To show my appreciation I bought an intake manifold gasket set just in case I was wrong. There seemed to be a bulged in the gasket in the same location.

Well, it looks like the old one was defective. No leak coming from the area or the synchro. File this under don't let this happen to you. Make sure to lubricate the synchro real good before install.

If this one doesn't hold up, I'll look in to the Motorcraft.