Rear Main Oil Seal Leak

[Bob338]

Can anyone tell me if the rear oil seal in a 601 engine can be replaced with tranny out and engine in car? Don't want to pull the whole thing out. This is a 2.2L non turbo.

[jt20]

It can be done.

The most important thing to remember is that you may end up with a much larger leak if you do not pay special attention to the oil pan seal when installing the rear seal carrier.

Also, when you set the new seal into the carrier, make sure to set the seal slightly deeper than it was before so that it does not ride directly in the worn out groove on the crankshaft.

And, when installing the carrier / seal back onto the block, use a piece of smooth plastic to persuade the new seal over the crankshaft. If you just force it on, the spring on the back of the seal may come off.

[Bob338]

Thanks. That's the answer I needed and wanted.