Rear main seal question

[dpuckett]

I have been reading a lot lately about rear main seals, and "special tools" and updates, and all that. WHich leaves me asking- WHat is the latest style seal, what is the special install tool, and what is so special about it all? Also, is the "new" style a double lipped teflon seal- scaled UP version of the front, or is it the 2 piece seal like you see commonly on rear axles of big rigs- with rubber on the inside and outside of the seal?



I had one from Cummins a couple years ago I didnt install, and took back (cam plug was leaking), and looked at one recently from the same shop, and it was the double lipped teflon seal all the parts stores had (and the parts stores were cheaper, thanks to my sortof employee discount).



So, what gives? ANyone got pictures of a recent Cummins seal you have installed?



Daniel

 

[PToombs]

Daniel, sorry, no pics. Outer edge of seal has 4 or 5 barbs, inner locks on crank. It installs dry, spins in itself. The "special" tool is a disc that bolts to the crank with a ring around the outside. There is a stud on the disc that draws the ring (and the seal) into the bore to a preset depth. It works awesome! No more beating with a hammer!

 

[MBergman]

I just put the new style seal in my 93 a few weeks ago. Same seal they are using in the 06's. The new style seal also comes with the metal ring that you smack with a hammer. When it bottoms on the retainer, its fully seated. The fancy tool would be nice, but its not really needed. I compared the depth after the install to a core 03 engine I have, and its the same depth.

Don't be intimidated by it. I was a bit, and was surprised at how easy it all was.

Marc

 

[bgilbert]

Too much confusion. The special tool is only for installing a wear sleeve, nothing new, been around forever. I'm sure the rear main seal you installed a few years ago is the same seal offered from Cummins, whatever that part number is. A wear sleeve/oil seal combo two piece unit is about double the price as the basic rear seal. This is the unit Ptoombs is talkin about, how you install it via this 'special' tool. Luckily I was sitting down when quoted a price for the wear sleeve install tool ~$200ish. PASS, give me the seal ONLY. If your crank doesn't have a groove in it that can be caught with a fingernail or sharp object, a seal only is necessary. Once it starts wearing bad, then usually you have to start looking deeper within Mr. Cummins.

 

[dpuckett]

Thanks, guys. I will look into it when the time comes to swap trannies. I am going to replace the cam plug unless it is just completely dry inside there.



-DP