Timing cover - harmonic balancer seal

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Nov 7, 2010 | 12:23 PM

jemini

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Tuned

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Timing cover - harmonic balancer seal

1988 f250 351W

Can the round seal that the balancer goes through be replaced without removing the whole timing chain cover assembly?

Thanks

Nov 7, 2010 | 01:14 PM

Lazy K

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That is the front crankshaft seal or timing cover seal. Never did a 351 but I would be sure that the seal is installed from the inside of the cover so it would have to come off.

Nov 7, 2010 | 08:32 PM

jemini

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I was hoping it might be easier - thanks.

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:37 AM

EPNCSU2006

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From: Concord, NC

I'd say give it a try before pulling the timing cover. Best I can remember, the bore that the seal presses into is straight through the cover.

Nov 8, 2010 | 07:05 AM

jemini

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EPNCSU2006 - I definitely check it out first.

Nov 8, 2010 | 12:12 PM

68 351 bronc

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From: Colville

That seal has a steel lip on it. I don't remember if it goes in from the front or from the back. If you don't see a lip from the outside, the cover will have to be removed.

Nov 8, 2010 | 12:21 PM

86F150302

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From: Jacksonville FL

The lip is on the outside. I replaced mine when it was off while I redid the timing cover gasket.

I dont think you will be able to get the old one off while its still on the truck.

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Nov 8, 2010 | 02:32 PM

Old93junk

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From: McKenzie River

You can replace the seal while the cover is still mounted to the engine..........Will you be able to seat it straight and properly, and to the correct depth.......not so much.
Pull the cover and do it right, doing things twice sucks.

Nov 8, 2010 | 03:09 PM

#10

lew52

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It can be done with the right skills & tools , but i think it would be best to remove the cover , then you can have a look at the timing chain , if theres any slack just replace it & the gears while your in there , have a good look at the water pump to....Lew