scjfly

Hey Guys,

I've been researching the rear main seal install here and everyone keeps emphasizing DRY. I understand that the inner diameter of the seal (rides on crankshaft) should be dry.

What about the outer diameter of the seal? It's rubber too and I've read to leave it dry, but some say a little soapy water will help with installation.

Do you guys have anymore guidance on this? Don't want to mess it up.

Thanks

dodgeguy71

I've just done them dry, you get it lined up properly and it will go in properly. No additional assistance required.

RTillery

I just cleaned everything up and wiped it with a little brake clean and a rag. Installed the new one completely dry.

One thing I figured out was drilling two small holes opposite each other in the seal body and putting in a couple of short screws. I then took a framing hammer and popped the seal out by pulling on the screw heads like nails. Worked slick. No leaks 50K miles later.

scjfly

Thanks guys, got it installed this morning. I cleaned the surfaces well and installed the seal completely dry. It took more effort to install to the correct depth than I had anticipated. Maybe i should have used the soapy water trick....

Thanks again.

cj360trider

does anyone replace the gasket on the seal housing? i did in mine for good measure. used some ultra grey to resael it to the oil pan

torquefan

I never have. Done dozens of these rear main seals, and haven't seen that housing gasket leak yet. I suppose it never hurts to do it while you're in there though.

cj360trider

thats my thot....kinda like a water pump with a timing belt on a small car. ur there already....why not? but to each his own. i pulled mine off to remove the seal it was just easier and id the gasket was supplied

Tate

Whenever I am involved in a rear main seal, the housing comes off. Its easier to install it in the housing off the truck, especially if a speedi-sleeve is involved.