Question : How to do a rear main seal?

[gpchris]

I got one in my conversion kit. I feel its better to do it while the engines out and before it goes bad. How do you change it? Do I have to pull the cap?

[94GPGTP]

no you dont have to pull the cap.. If you dont have a seal puller just be careful with a screwdriver and dont nick up the crank. Pry it out and put the new one in.. Dont forget grease.. It's just like changing any other seal basically..

[gpchris]

what grease? I never used grease on any other seals. And dont i need rtv for this one?

[94GPGTP]

i use grease on the inside of the seal so it sllides in real nice and doesnt tear or damage it plus it helps lube it.. when i did my rear main i didnt use any rtv but it wouldn't hurt to put it on the outside of the seal for extra protection..

[walterdude]

Actually, I just did my rear main and used oil on the seal.... Later on I found a GM Service Bulletin on the new seal and they said use NO oil or grease to install, keep it dry... I can't see a problem with lubing it and I hope it holds!!! I'll find the file and post it....
Tom

[gpse3400]

if the engine is nice and old then you should pull the cap and re RTV the cap and the block mating surface.Then you can replace the seal at that time. Otherwise just pull the seal and repalce it.

[gpchris]

The motor has 120k miles on it, I think im just gona rtv the cap and install it dry. I mean old ones are dry..