Rear main oil seal — replacement
1. Remove the transmission (see Automatic transmission).
2. Remove the drive plate (see Driveplate — removal and installation).
3. Pry the oil seal from the rear cover with a screwdriver. Be careful not to nick or scratch the crankshaft or the seal bore. Be sure to note how far it’s recessed into the housing bore before removal so the new seal can be installed to the same depth. Thoroughly clean the seal bore in the block with a shop towel. Remove all traces of oil and dirt.
4. Don’t lubricate the seal or touch the sealing lip. Make sure the seal is installed in the correct orientation (it has a reverse-lip design). The marking on the seal (.. THIS SIDE OUT …) must be visible when it’s installed. Preferably, a seal installation tool (available at most auto parts stores) should be used to press the new seal back into place. If the proper seal installation tool is unavailable, use a large drift and carefully drive the new seal squarely into the seal bore and flush with the rear cover.
5. Install the drive plate (see Driveplate — removal and installation).
6. Install the transmission (see Automatic transmission).