The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop replacing rear main seal in 1966 283 engine?

Just how difficult is it to replace the rear main seal in a 283 engine? I want to replace top and bottom. Is it possible to replace with engine in vehicle and all the running bolted on? I know the pan the oil pump and rear main cap need to be removed. Some advice and instruction past that point would appreciated.

I am going to guess that it isn't a whole lot different than the six as far as this goes.

Look in a motors or chiltons book it will be described in full detail. If it is a lip seal you just drive it around the crank with a careful hand,and when enough comes around the other side a pair of pliers will get it the rest of the way out.

I was hoping to get some help from someone who has actually done it. Is there anyone out there who has.

In my experience, I would take the engine out to work on it rather than crawl under the truck and do it on my back.

In the end I don't think it is any less work to pull the engine than to constantly get up and down and crawling around underneath. It is certainly less frustrating.

If it is a rope seal, I don't think I would want to try to remove and replace it from under the truck. But, that's me.