The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 1940 Chev rear main seal

I replaced the rope seals in my 1940 Chev Special Deluxe. I did not find a seal in the upper part of the bearing, also no material parts were in the oil strainer or oil pan. The lower seal was worn and split. I slid one of the seals in the top and fitted the other seal in the groove of the lower bearing cap. I worked it into the groove as instructed. I torqued the 4 bolts on the cap to 100 ft lbs and installed the oil pan and added the oil. The starter would not turn over the engine. Battery is good. I backed off the 2 rear bearing bolts on the cap and the engine turns over very slowly. I may have to drop the oil pan and loosen the 2 front bolts on the bearing cap. Before I do that I have to ask if 100 lbs of torque was too much? Any other assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Sounds more like the seal is not installed correctly and is causing to much friction to turn, rather than to much torque on the bolts. There is a rope seal (wick seal) installation too. But you can also use a steal rod to ensure the seal is pushed into the grove all the way. I'm not sure how you get the top half in without taking the crankshaft down. I have not put a rear seal in a motor unless I had the engine out. I know you can do it with the engine in just seems easier for me to pull the motor.