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Yes, I am 99% sure that what you have is a non OEM timing sprocket. This 3.5L engine was used on a lot of different makes and models so it wouldn't surprise me if someone may have thought, hmm... Close enough!

How sure are you that there was half a tooth's rotation on that? There should not have been any.

In regards to the front crankshaft seal, if it isn't leaking I would recommend to leave it alone. If you go in after it, there is a possibility that you may gouge a scratch on the crankshaft during the removal process. If that happens than no matter what kind of new seal you put on it, there will always be a leak.

I have first hand personal experience with this and repairing that was not fun. I tried a lot of things and in the end, the only thing that actually worked was a new crankshaft.


No worries about the lack of pics, what you've already uploaded is really helpful. A very interesting question here is if I'm actually running the wrong bolt, AND my sprocket is "close enough." Ha, what a mess.

So I may be a little excessive with my half tooth estimate. I guess what it comes down to is that I could feel definite play, and as you say, I was expecting none at all. Even if my bolt does turn out to be wrong, I really want to deal with that sprocket.

Well, that sounds like more than enough convincing to leave that seal alone. I'd rather not repeat your crankshaft experience!

1998 Gen 2.5 Montero w/ winter package