Engine Push Rod Tube Seal Set
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Cometic C9586-TC Pushrod Tube O-Ring Seal Set with Lifter Block Gaskets for Twin Cam
What Are Engine Push Rod Tube Seal Sets?
In engines that use pushrods — particularly older air-cooled designs like classic Volkswagens and many American V8s — the pushrod tubes are hollow metal tubes that house the pushrods and route oil between the engine case and the cylinder head. Push rod tube seal sets are the rubber or silicone gaskets that sit at each end of these tubes, forming a tight barrier that keeps engine oil where it belongs and prevents it from leaking down the sides of the engine.
Each tube typically uses two seals: one at the engine case end and one at the cylinder head end. Over time, exposure to heat, oil, and engine vibration causes these seals to harden, crack, and shrink — and even a minor failure can lead to frustrating oil leaks that coat the engine and surrounding components. A complete seal set replaces all of the seals in one go, ensuring every tube is properly sealed after a rebuild or repair.
Why Push Rod Tube Seals Matter
A leaking push rod tube seal is more than just a cosmetic nuisance. Oil that escapes can drip onto hot exhaust components, creating a fire hazard and an unpleasant burning smell. Over time, the engine can also lose enough oil to cause lubrication problems if the leak goes unaddressed. Replacing the seal set proactively during any major engine service — such as a valve adjustment, cylinder removal, or top-end rebuild — is considered best practice and saves the cost and hassle of pulling components apart a second time.
When shopping for push rod tube seals, material matters. Standard rubber seals work fine for stock engines under normal operating conditions, but high-performance or heavily modified engines benefit from silicone seals, which are engineered to withstand higher temperatures without drying or cracking. Always verify that the inner and outer diameters of the seals match your specific engine's pushrod tube dimensions, as these can vary between engine families, displacements, and performance tube upgrades.
What to Consider When Buying a Push Rod Tube Seal Set
- Material: Silicone seals offer superior heat and oil resistance compared to standard rubber, making them a smart upgrade for performance applications.
- Quantity: A complete set should include enough seals to cover all pushrod tubes in the engine — for example, a four-cylinder VW air-cooled engine typically requires 16 seals (two per tube, eight tubes).
- Fitment: Cross-reference by engine displacement, year, and model to ensure a proper seal diameter and profile match.
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: OEM-equivalent seals from reputable manufacturers ensure correct dimensions and material specifications for your engine.
Top Brands in Engine Push Rod Tube Seal Sets
Victor Reinz is one of the most respected names in automotive sealing technology. Victor Reinz supplies engine sealing products to virtually every major automaker in the world and is widely regarded as the benchmark for OEM-quality gaskets and seals in the aftermarket. Their push rod tube seal sets are engineered to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, making them a trusted choice for both professional mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts performing engine work.