Rear Crankshaft Main Bearing Seal: Service and Repair

Fig. 12 Crankshaft Main Bearing Oil Seal Installation:

All models have been modified to use a thicker lip type seal (part No. 14077817). The crankshaft need not be removed for seal replacement on models using the thick type seal.
Some models use an O-ring (part No. 14083381) to seal oil pump transfer passage from rear main bearing cap to cylinder block. The O-ring fits into a machined groove in the cylinder block and must be replaced whenever the rear main bearing cap is removed. In addition to the O-ring, the rear main bearing cap must also be sealed to the block using sealing compound.
Engines with this type rear main oil seal can be identified by the date code stamping located on the horizontal pad above the left upper water pump bolt.
1. Raise and support vehicle.
2. Support engine as needed, then remove transmission.
3. Remove clutch and pressure plate, if equipped, then remove flywheel or flex plate.
4. Insert screwdriver through seal lip and pry seal from bore, taking care not to damage crankshaft.
5. Clean seal bore and crankshaft, then inspect for burrs, nicks and wear, and repair as needed.
6. Lightly lubricate replacement seal lip, mount seal on installer J-34686 or equivalent, Fig. 12, and seat dust lip of seal squarely against collar.
7. Lubricate outer diameter of seal, align dowel pin of tool with dowel pin hole in crankshaft, mount tool on crankshaft.
8. On 1987 models, torque retaining bolts to 2-5 ft. lbs.
9. On 1988-92 models, torque retaining bolt to 36 inch lbs.
10. On all models, rotate ``T'' handle of tool clockwise, pressing seal into bore until collar is tight against engine case to ensure seal is fully seated.
11. Rotate ``T'' handle of tool counterclockwise to stop, then remove tool and ensure seal is seated squarely in bore.
12. Reverse remaining procedure to complete installation.