I put the crank in, etc. I just put the rear main oil seal on, and the crank doesn't turn as freely as it did before when I didn't have the slinger or the seal on there. Is that normal or should it turn as smooth as before?

 

It should turn without much effort if you only have the crank in the blockwithout the rods and pistons. If it doesn't,recheck the main bearings' journal clearance with a plastigage. Maybe you got the wrong size bearings.You didn't say if you installedthe new pistons and rods. Even if you replaced the rings on the old pistons, then it will be more difficult to turn than before. The new rings will be much tighter against the cylinder wall and cause more friction making the crank much more difficult to turn.

 

Technically, it will require more force to turn it after the seal and slinger are installed, but it shouldn't make so much difference that it causes concern.
Are you sure the seal is flat, and square to the carrier's bore?

 

The crank turn absolutley effortless without the slinger and seal in it, but when I put the slinger in and then the seal it just became a little harder. It stills turns just fine. I think I'm just over analyzing everything.

 

I think you're right.

 

Cool. I'll let you guys know how it goes. Thanks.

 

put that motor in and crank it up!!!! your missing the car for summer..[&:]

 

when i forged, i did the newrings and it was more difficult to turn then before. it helped when i used a little extra grease on the crank to help the install, but it will be more difficult to turn than before. if its to the point youre exerting alot of effort to crank it, then id recheck the bearings or rings.

and im sure youre overanalyzing things, i did when i had my motor scattered on the garage haha its only natural to worry about your investment. youll be fine and good luck with the rest of the build!! get her runnin for summer!!