Genuine 2003 Chevrolet Astro Crankshaft Seal

2003 Chevrolet Astro Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to Replace the Crankshaft Seal in V6 engine on 2003 Chevrolet Astro?

  A: To finally remove the front seal while the timing cover is still on, the first step is to remove the vibration damper, then, ever so gently, using a seal removal tool, or a large screwdriver, it can be popped out of the bore without bending the cover or scratching the seal bore. This may be done either from the top of the engine, or from the rear depending on how the set up is and if the engine has high mileage, penetrating oil to the seal-to-cover joint would help. Deburr the bore to remove a residue of old seal material and damage for improved fit and to remove rust, and install the new seal with the open end toward the bore wall, use a little oil on the outside of the outer edge of the new seal for ease when putting in. Insert the seal into the bore till it comes in contact with the bore face with the aid of a large socket and hammer, make sure the socket fits the outside diameter of the seal properly. If the timing cover is pulled off, open the back side and using a punch or screwdriver and hammer drive the seal out with the help of supporting the cover near the bore. Remove the bore, align the new seal with its small end inwards and insert the seal with a large socket and a hammer. The final crankshaft bearing seal on 1985 models is best replaced with the engine still in the car and in order to do this one has to pull the oil pan and oil pump. Remove the rear main bearing cap, then using a large flat prying tool remove the section of the seal in the cap and pound on the section stuck in the block until you can get a good grip on it with large pairs of pliers. Making sure the mating surfaces are free of defects it's necessary to properly install the new seal section in the cap with the lip facing the front of the engine using a seal installation tool. It is also advised that the seal lips and groove be lubricated and the seal is then placed in the block hole and forced in by the tool. Surprise to the joint surfaces the thin layer of anaerobic-type gasket sealant; install the bearing cap and tighten bolts. On the 1986 and subsequent models, you will have to uninstall the transmission and the flywheel in order to get to the seal housing; you will have to push out the old seal while being careful not to harm the bore. It is recommended also to check the state of the seal contact surface, clean the housing and lubricate the outer part of the new seal with oil and the inner, lateral faces with grease. In case, a special tool is not available, then the oil pan should be detached and seal has to be installed using the vice. Apply a light coat of any suitable oil on the seal lips before sliding the housing over the crankshaft, use of new gaskets and tighten the nuts/screws slowly to proper torque.