Date:         Tue, 8 Jun 1999 14:23:18 -0700
Reply-To:     Randy Bergum <organslave@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Randy Bergum <organslave@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      Re: removing main engine seal?
Comments: To: "Pollard, Matthew" <Matthew.Pollard@OREADCA.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Hi Matthew:
    I just replaced my main seal this last weekend, and it was tough.  Turns
out the seal is original, with 200k mi on it.  The seal didn't budge until I
used a 24" prybar with a handle on the end, plus a bridge across the engine
case to avoid boogering up the crank.  The seal broke loose, but needed prying
out.  I think there was some kind of sealant goo on it that glued it to the
case.  Mighty tough, but a thin coat of grease on the new one will make it
easier next time.
    Ended up replacing clutch, friction disc, TO bearing, yoke and bushings,
nose cone for the TO bearing, needle bearing and felt seal.  Results are
phenomenal, smooth, light, no drag.  Used waterproof BMW grease, which doesn't
go away easy, and also lubed the splines on the input shaft to the trans.  Be
careful not to overdo it, as the clutch don't be likin' no grease on itself.

    Randy Bergum
    1990 Carat


Pollard, Matthew wrote:

> Howdy there again,
> I am preparing to replace my main engine seal (and clutch, etc if needed).
> On bugs, getting that seal out was a major try of patience.  Is there a
> trick to getting it out?  Do I need to spend the $ for a tool (a.k.a. toy
> :-)  or will a modified screwdriver work?  Also, advice on removing the
> transaxle seal is desired.
>
> Thanks
> Matthew
> 84 weekender (manual)
>
> p.s., ever try the word "transaxle" in a spell check :-)