Install rear main seal without special tool?
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 67
Likes: 4
From: Lakewood CO
Install rear main seal without special tool?
75,000 on my 1997 C5, drivetrain is already out for clutch replacement. I want to replace seals and other wear items at the same time that I do the clutch since they are so hard to get to otherwise.
Can I install the rear main seal without the special tool J-41479? If so, how?
I've looked at a lot of threads on this subject, some say yes but don't really explain how.
Thanks,
Can I install the rear main seal without the special tool J-41479? If so, how?
I've looked at a lot of threads on this subject, some say yes but don't really explain how.
Thanks,
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 4,449
Likes: 409
From: Portland OR
You remove the rear cover, carefully knock the seal out, carefully install the new seal and replace with a new gasket.
I'm not sure what this special tool does.
Might want to put a dab of silicone sealer where the cover gasket meets the pan gasket.
Ron
I'm not sure what this special tool does.
Might want to put a dab of silicone sealer where the cover gasket meets the pan gasket.
Ron
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 968
Likes: 12
From: Regina Sask
Just pry the seal out with a screw driver. Then lubricate the OD of the seal only, DO NOT lube the ID of the seal. Make sure the seal is facing the correct way, as the new GM seals look like the seal lip is facing the wrong way, but look for the small print on the seal.
Then the seal will almost push in with your fingers, then carefully tap the seal in with a small hammer & punch.
Russ Kemp
Then the seal will almost push in with your fingers, then carefully tap the seal in with a small hammer & punch.
Russ Kemp
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 4,326
Likes: 140
From: Weatherford, TX
I replaced with the cover in place. My factory seal would not pry out. Lots of cussing was involved. 
The seal has metal ring on the inside. I ended up drilling and putting a small metal screw in it, and pulling it out from that. Then used the old seal and a block of wood to tap in the new one.
The seal has metal ring on the inside. I ended up drilling and putting a small metal screw in it, and pulling it out from that. Then used the old seal and a block of wood to tap in the new one.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 968
Likes: 12
From: Regina Sask
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