Never seen a rear main like this one before...

[Thadigus]

So while putting timing chains in my 4.0 SOHC I got to the point of every 4.0 when you install a new rear main because it seems like these things go every 100k miles. But when I did I ran into this seal and it looks nothing like the others I've seen. It's got the metal thing around the crank, maybe a ready sleeve? Does anyone know what this is and ever more important how the heck to get it off as it's stuck on there pretty darn good. Any help would be awesome!
Thadigus

 

[koda2000]

Here's a pic of a new rear main seal. It looks like what you have.

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=260496&cc=1372407&jsn=502

Here's a link on removing the old seal.

https://www.justanswer.com/ford/4mio2-2000-ford-explorer-4-0l-sohc.html

A Google search says special tools are needed to install a new rear main seal. The below link tells you how to make one.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/articles/ford-2-3l-3-0l-4-0l-rear-main-seal-installer-tool/

 

[Thadigus]

Here's a pic of a new rear main seal. It looks like what you have. I don't know how you remove it though. Can a seal removal tool be hooked into the outside edge? I'm sure @2000StreetRod would know how to remove it.

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=260496&cc=1372407&jsn=502

A Google search says special tools are needed to install a new rear main seal.

A special tool to install and remove it? Yeah if you think he would know how I'd love to hear his opinion!

 

[koda2000]

A special tool to install and remove it? Yeah if you think he would know how I'd love to hear his opinion!

I've gone back and edited my original post, adding removal and install info links. Please re-read.

 

[Thadigus]

I've gone back and edited my original post, adding removal and install info links. Please re-read.

Yes! Thank you!

 

[Thadigus]

Here's a pic of a new rear main seal. It looks like what you have.

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=260496&cc=1372407&jsn=502

Here's a link on removing the old seal.

https://www.justanswer.com/ford/4mio2-2000-ford-explorer-4-0l-sohc.html

A Google search says special tools are needed to install a new rear main seal. The below link tells you how to make one.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/articles/ford-2-3l-3-0l-4-0l-rear-main-seal-installer-tool/

I did end up getting the new seal on and subsequently the flywheel, hopefully I'll be dropping it in the truck tonight. Again thanks for all of the help!

 

[koda2000]

I did end up getting the new seal on and subsequently the flywheel, hopefully I'll be dropping it in the truck tonight. Again thanks for all of the help!

Congrats. I hope it will remain leak free for you.