VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc rear main seal 235 engine

I'm in the process of replacing the rear main seal on my 54 convert with the stock 235 ci. engine I had rebuilt the engine with the "graphtite seal.The seal moved and compressed after a few thousand miles and caused a severe oil leak,I believe it stuck to the crank and being soft led to it's demise,I would never recommend using this new type seal.I'm installing the "original" type graphite seal and I'm questioning whether I should lubricate it before installing the crankshaft,thanks in advance for your advice. Frank.

I have always liberally oiled a new rear main seal after installation and before assembling the bearing cap.

Some people soak the seal in oil before installing it. I prefer not to do that. I only want oil on the seal surface that runs on the bearing. My thinking is that I want the seal to stay in place in the groove. A heavily oiled seal might not.

One other tip to consider is to offset the ends of the seal halves so they do not line-up with the split between the block and the bearing cap. Others have their tricks.

Rusty thanks I will oil the seal I also pinned the cap.