Doing Rear Main Seal - Anything else while in there?

[franky73]

Got a 2002 with a long term leak from the rear main seal. Increasing quite a bit lately and now I am having to top up between oil changes so it is time...

Apart from the rear main is there anything else I should be looking to do? I am thinking possibly the flex plate but not certain its needed. Plan on using this truck long term.

Also hoping someone can confirm the part number for the rear seal.

Thanks T4R

 

[JWaldz]

Maybe take a look at the engine mounts while the engine is out? It's also a lot easier to do the valve cover gasket job and timing belt job if you plan on putting it on an engine stand (if it's not already freshly done). Other than that, I cant't think of anything other than simple maintenance and maybe cleaning up the engine and engine bay. Maybe time to add some nice headers

Here's the part # for the RMS - 90311A0027

 

[thegipper]

Are you planning on pulling the engine or pulling the tranny? I've done both and I would rather pull the tranny (twice) than pull the engine again.

I would inspect the flex plate for any cracks but if its fine, I would leave it. If you do want to replace it for peace of mind, definitely get an OEM one. Aftermarket flex plates are notorious for breaking.

Make sure you use thread locker on the flex plate bolts and bring them up to torque evenly/slowly.

I would use an OEM seal also. You can look to see if the oil pump housing is leaking. If its not, I would probably leave it. If it is, you'll need to pull it, clean everything up real well and put a healthy amount of FIPG down per the FSM.

 

[TheDurk]

If you have not done your starter contacts, now is a good time. Pulling the starter is whole lot easier with no trans (or engine) in the way. They will go eventually.

I did mine when I did my clutch (and rear main as PM). The one side was about 3/4 gone.

 

[franky73]

Exactly what I was looking for.

I am thinking I should probably pull the transmission. I watched the video from Timmy on replacing the transmission and it really didn't look as bad as I was thinking.