Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Change rear main seal?

[Warhorse]

I'm taking my '97 2500 4x4 in for a new transmission (47RE--it lasted 325,000miles) later this week. Would it be a good idea to have the rear main seal replaced at the same time, since the trans will be out of the way? It doesn't seem to be leaking, but with 325K on it, I'm thinking it might be a good idea to replace it anyway. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[JHastings]

I did one when I did my clutch this past fall. It's not that tough, but just be sure that you don't score the seal housing or the main. Pit a small screw right into the rubber meat of the seal and pry it out. Should come out pretty easy.

Jamie

 

[Grey Wolf]

Definitely do it while it's out, otherwise Murphy may come and visit

 

[JLandry]

Warehorse,



I recently had my originally transmission swapped out for a new Gorend-built unit and I was thinking along the same lines as you are... that is I might as well have the rear main seal replaced while the transmission is out as a preventative measure. The transmission shop doing the work pulled the housing from the back of the engine they didn't find any sign of leakage or even seepage. Based on that I told them not to bother.



You might at least consider something similar... i. e. : have the seal on-hand and be ready to replace it if any sign of seepage is present, otherwise leave well enough alone. But then you have a lot more miles on yours than I have on mine, so I don't think you can go wrong with replacing it anyway.



Best regards,



John L.