Front crank shaft seal

[jcasey007]

To keep my wife happy I am systematically tackling the various oil leaks that keep my EX from rusting

I have noticed that for a while now I have had a slight leak from the front crank shaft seal. it accounts for one drop overnight, between oil changes (7000 miles) I add about 1/2 litre.

what is the procedure for changing it with the engine in the car, do I have to remove sump, radiator etc and are there any gotchas!

finally how much time would I need to do it

cheers

Jim

 

[janolsson]

Hi jim
I imagine that would require you to take the front timing cover off which would require a coolant drain, fan belt off, rad out (for room to work maybe possible without), disconnect the hoses, remove harmonic balancer, undo the 10 bolts or so.
But thinking about it there is no reason you couldn't find a way to pull it out of the casing in situ. maybe drill tiny holes in the outer edge, put in a couple of self tappers and pull. I wouldn't try to pry by putting something between the seal and the crank.
regards
Jan

 

[2000StreetRod]

seal replacement

The crankshaft seal in the front timing cover can be replaced without removing the cover. According to my Haynes Repair Manual:

Remove engine cooling fan/shroud
Remove the harmonic balancer
Use a seal puller (see photo below) to remove the seal being careful not to scratch the crankshaft
Oil the lip of the new seal and drive it into the bore with a socket or pipe
Oil the sealing section of the balancer
Apply a small amount of RTV into the keyway of the balancer and install before the RTV sets

The balancer retaining bolt is a torque-to-yield bolt and should not be reused.

 

[scdix50]

Before you remove the seal, clean off the timing chain cover surface around the seal area. You will need a pipe coupling, I do not how pipe is measured in the UK. I think what I used was 2" ID, that makes it about 2.25" OD. You can get one at most any hardware store.
Slide the coupling in until it is firm against the face of the seal, use a marker to draw a line on the coupling. Now you have the depth for the seal. I wrap tape around the coupling to use as a stop point.
If you drive the seal too far back it will slide out of the timing chain cover seating area.

 

[jcasey007]

I think I will live with an occasional drip,

I'm planning a winter engine overhaul so I'll deal with it then

cheers

Jim

 

[MGiovanni]

I have found that by using a common paint can opener, available at just about any hardware store, it is easier to remove the front crankshaft seal. The seal puller designed for the job has too long of a handle and is awkward with the radiator still in place. I have used this method many times and it works well.