The "Chinese handcuff" type of seal puller works well, but be VERY careful not to insert too much of the seal into the device- - - -you won't be able to remove it from the seal after it's installed if you do.
I soak the rope seal in oil for several hours before trying to install it. Then roll it out on a flat surface until it's about 2/3 of its original diameter. It will stretch an inch or more in length in the process. That way, it rolls over the crankshaft very easily, even with just a piece of copper wire hooked into the end of the seal as a puller. It's easier if you loosen all the main bearing caps and drop the crankshaft down a little.
Once the seal is rolled over the crankshaft, use a piece of wooden dowel rod to pack it into the groove, expanding it back to its original diameter. I have installed at least 50 seals that way, with very few failures.
Jerry
