1quickTransAm

iTrader: (4)

I have my trans pulled for a trans rebuild and a new clutch. If my rear main seal is not leaking right now (about 85,000 miles), should I replace it while I have easy access now?

Part of me says do it now cuz its right there, but part of me says "its not leaking now, don't risk creating a problem".

HotSilverBird

If the oil has been change regularly i'd let it be. They last a very long time with proper oil changes.

BE SURE not to damage the crankshaft rear center plug if you plan on replacing the pilot bushing. DO NOT use a grease gun to push out the bushing OR install any tool that would go beyond the depth of the bushing to remove it. There is a small freeze out type plug pressed into the center of the crankshaft under the pilot bushing.

1quickTransAm

iTrader: (4)

Hadn't even thought about changing the pilot bushing...should I?

bp m1009

iTrader: (2)

jusy had my t56 out last week to put in a new centerforce clutch. my rear main wasnt leaking either, i thought it was but turned out to be the front seal on the t56. anyway i decided to replace my rear main anyway at 72k miles and everything went fine no leaks. i used a felpro seal that i got from summit. i think its a good idea to replace it while its out

01ssreda4

iTrader: (96)

Pilot bearing : yes
Non-leaking rear main : no

Grimes

iTrader: (3)

I was in the same situation a while ago, and I agree. Changed the clutch out at 100k, and swapped the pilot bearing out, left the rear seal in. Seal is still good at 130k, so keep your fingers crossed!

Crimsonnaire

iTrader: (1)

Is the pilot bearing situated ahead (looking from the back) of the rear main seal? Also, what indications would you get when it wears out and needs replacing?

bp m1009

iTrader: (2)

its a needle bearing in the end of the crankshaft. yours is probly bad, most of the time the needles go everywhere. Mine disintegrated and all that was left was metal powder. I recommend replacing it with a pilot bushing instead of a pilot bearing.

Crimsonnaire

iTrader: (1)

Crap. I had the perfect opportunity to replace this when I had the clutch and rear main seal replaced. I had no idea about it then, and the mechanic didn't mention anything.

I haven't noticed any bad driveability or abnormal sounds, but would you say a worn/pulvarized pilot bearing is severe enough to warrant expenditures solely to get at this? Or is this bearing visible upon removing the rear main seal and that if it was worn, the mechanic would've likely said something?

Thank you for your help.

bp m1009

iTrader: (2)

if he was looking at the rear main the pilot bearing is visible as well. its in the end of the crank. Any good mechanic would know to check the pilot bearing, its just something that goes along with removing a transmission