greg75vette

Hey guys, I know this subject has been covered 1000+ times, but I need to know about replacing the rear main seal cover gasket (if that's the correct word). I've searched a few times and found a mix of posts with conflicting answers.

Can I remove the seal cover, replace the seal and gasket and reinstall without the J-14149 (? going from memory) alignment tool? I am not changing the oil pan gasket.

If I have to use that tool, where is a good place to borrow it? I checked my local shop and they don't have it.

Thanks guys. I really appreciate any help you can share.

99Bluz28

iTrader: (35)

Before removing the cover spray over and around it with brake clean.

After removing the cover I first clean all the mating surfaces, then replaced the seal, and placed a bead of sealant on the L & R sides where block and oil pan meet. After that I reinstalled the gasket and and cover and threaded all the bolts in loosely, then tightened them all by hand, starting with the very bottom bolts that pull the cover down up against the pan and work your way L-to-R & top-to-bottom. Now repeat but torque all fasteners to spec.
This is how I did mine about 6 months ago, without any problems!

greg75vette

Ok cool. This is something I've been fretting for a while now. Thanks!

JFM-jr

iTrader: (23)

Greg if your leaving the pan on it's makes realignment alot easier. 99Blu has outlined a solid procedure for you. Your not far from me (Im in Shirley/Mastic) I have a complete LS tool kit from Kent Moore. Feel to PM me if you run into any issues.

adam`

iTrader: (10)

why top to bottom? i always felt bottom to top was the way to go. just curious.

99Bluz28

iTrader: (35)

You're actually starting at the bottom, it's just the way I worded it.

"Starting with the very bottom bolts that pull the cover down up against the pan and work your way L-to-R & top-to-bottom."