00blackstang

i got my transmission off, clutch and flywheel out... i think its a good idea to change the rear main seal, help tho... how do i change it, where is it exactly

00blackstang

when i pulled the flywheel off , i noticed that it is wet and dirty n the back of the block, i dont no if its just wet and dirty or oil. i dont no what to do, i was never low or had to add oil so i guess its alright?

Misbehavin

If you already have the transmission, clutch, and flywheel out, it's a good idea to go ahead and replace the rear main while you're there. That's a substantial amount of time invested in getting to that point, and if the seal would leak later it could ruin a new clutch disk. Be careful with the screws and only allow them to contact the seal. You don't want to score the crankshaft or block.

I've found an image on the net, as I didn't have one handy. I edited it quickly, pointing to the rear main seal.



To remove the rear main, I usually just take a small self-tapping screw or two and run through it. You only need a couple of threads into the rear main to grip it for pulling out.

To replace it, you'll want to use the tool that's made for pressing it back into place because if you damage the seal, it will leak (and badly in most cases). The tool helps the seal go in evenly. Some people use a makeshift tool to set it in place, but I've always avoided that method myself.

You should also replace the pilot bearing while you have the transmission out as well, if you haven't already planned on it.