rear main seal

Aug 23, 2006 7 Replies

So Ive just got my rear main seal in now. Ive held off on the clutch, cuz I dont know if ive done the seal wrong. I oiled up the seal and tapped it in with a hammer keeping in mind that the sealing edge should get in there straight. I couldnt get it flush so I stuck the old seal against it and rapped it a few times around. It turned to be seated under flush and the 12 o clock position of the seal was even a bit lower. Sort of crooked. I would pop it back out and try again with a new one, but they seem to be hard to get. It takes days for the parts store to get em. What do I do?



Oh, Its 82 rabbit pickup, CIS 1.7 gasser.



Sounds like a poor installation job, which is just going to result in leaks. Take that seal out and install a new one.

A Bentley service manual will offer some, but not much, help. However, installing oil seals is really a job for a pro. Perhaps an acquaintance with experience installing seals can help. Otherwise your best bet is to take your vehicle to a service center. Look for a non-dealership service center that specializes in German cars. They will charge you less. Good luck.

I just place a small block of 2x4 wood over it and tap it right on center carefully. Watch to make sure it begins to seat squarely.

Good Luck Mike

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