Hi,

I am in need of replacing my front crank seal on my 88 2.8. Does anyone have a write up of how this is done? I heard that it can be done through the wheel well without removing the engine.

thanks,
Tim

[This message has been edited by Mickey_Moose (edited 02-01-2005).]

not a step by step, but basicly, just remove the pulley, harmonic balancer, then pry out the old one. oil the new one, put it in, oil the surface of the harmonic balancer, slap that back in - with a tiny dap of RTV on the keyway, then replace the pulley. I dunno if you have room to get a puller in there tho. I would hope you can...

You have to use a puller to get the balancer off without ruining it. Yes just go in thru the wheel well as above. Also check the hub of your balancer for a groove cut in it by the seal. If there is much of a groove you will have to sleeve the hub. Not much of a job and the sleeve can be bought at just about any parts store. Be sure to get one that includes locktite.
When I did this job I had a lot of fun starting the new seal in the front cover because its hard to get something in there to drive it in. Just be creative and you'll get it . Btw I put a thin film of Permatex on the outside of the seal before installing it.

Whatever you do, if you get the harmonic balancer off, don't hammer it back on it can cause damge to the crank and it's bearings. Use the correct tool to install it. You should be able to get enough clearance to do the job if you remove the strut and splash guards. Here is a picture of the installation tool.

Yes, you will have to remove the splash guard. I believe you may also improve access by dropping the front of the cradle a bit.