The Official Rear Main Seal replacement thread

[Terry1213]

I used the stock seal holder and a Fel Pro set. Glue in the side seals and put a little RTV on the sides to install it smoothly. I had an aftermarket billet seal holder and seals, but it leaked. Stock is the best.

 

[LSS&B]

I used the stock seal holder and a Fel Pro set. Glue in the side seals and put a little RTV on the sides to install it smoothly. I had an aftermarket billet seal holder and seals, but it leaked. Stock is the best.

What glue did you use on the side seals? Thanks

 

[440 4 speed]

Also for those without a milling machine to remove the .012 of aluminum you can use wet dry sand paper 400 grit, wd40 for lube. I have a heavy piece of steel that is flat I used with some strong magnets to keep the paper flat. Then just move the retainer side to side until the proper amount is removed. I checked many many times to make sure it was square and correct with a digital caliper. The small magnets are an awesome addition in the shop. I use them to hang a plastic garbage bag under the crank to keep all the oil dripping on the floor. KEEP track of how many you use so you can make sure NONE moved onto a crankshaft counter weight or something. The blue pins help with installation of the one piece gasket and pan. Screw them into the pan bolt holes and then the gasket snaps up and then the pan. They keep everything aligned and free your hands from holding stuff up. Last pic is of applicators I get from amazon. These help in cleaning in tight places like the upper seal cavity and also applying sealant neatly. I use them all the time even for applying a nice even amount of grease or oil on something. Be careful with the magnets they are no joke as they snap tight like you can never imagine and can give ya a blood blister. NOT for kids. Magnets are from Amazon.

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When I want to level things like the thermostat housing for example. I use a very old vent window glass and also use 400 wet/dry sandpaper on it as you did and work the housing back and forth until all is level. Used this method for about 40 years or more.

 

[Tony Tee]

I wonder if excessive engine blow by will make a rear main seal leak ? ?

 

[Terry1213]

What glue did you use on the side seals? Thanks

Toyota RTV. The same RTV I used to install it. Glue wasn't the correct word. I applied a bit in the grooves and held the side seals tight between a couple bricks and let it set up for a day.

 

[LSS&B]

Toyota RTV. The same RTV I used to install it. Glue wasn't the correct word. I applied a bit in the grooves and held the side seals tight between a couple bricks and let it set up for a day.

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Great idea! Thanks