Jeep 33004681 Seal-Front Main CRANKSHAFT

V6 engines may have four types of rear Crankshaft Seals. Most 1984 models have two-piece neoprene or rope-type seals, serviceable without removing the crankshaft. Some 1984 models have a one-piece neoprene seal requiring crankshaft removal. To identify the seal type on 1984 models, the oil pan and rear main bearing cap must be removed. On 1985 and later models, an oval cast on the engine block indicates a one-piece seal, accessible by removing the flywheel/driveplate. Special tools are needed for 1984 models with rope-type seals, while both halves of the seal must be serviced for two-piece neoprene seals. For 1985 and later models with one-piece seals, the transmission and flywheel/driveplate are removed.

First of all, for installing rear Crankshaft Seals in four-cylinder and post-1985 V6 engines, clean the block/cap bore and crankshaft, lubricate the new seal, and press it into place with a special tool or hammer and punch. For inline six-cylinder engines, inspect and clean the bearing cap and block surfaces, install the semi-circular seal with the lip facing front, and apply anaerobic sealant during final crankshaft installation. For 1984 V6 engines, use a one-piece seal, apply Loctite 515 sealer, and install before final crankshaft installation.

Remove the vibration damper. Carefully pry the oil seal out of the timing chain cover with a seal removal tool or screwdriver. Don't scratch the cover bore or damage the crankshaft in the process, as if the crankshaft is damaged the new seal will end up leaking. Clean the bore in the cover and coat the outer edge of the new seal with engine oil or multi-purpose grease. Using a socket with an outside diameter slightly smaller than the outside diameter of the seal, carefully drive the new seal into place with a hammer. If a socket isn't available, a short section of large diameter pipe will work. Check the seal after installation to be sure that the spring didn't pop out of place. Reinstall the vibration damper. The parts removed to gain access to the damper can now be reinstalled. Run the engine and check for leaks.

V6 engines may have four types of rear Crankshaft Seals. Most 1984 models have two-piece neoprene or rope-type seals, serviceable without removing the crankshaft. Some 1984 models have a one-piece neoprene seal requiring crankshaft removal. To identify the seal type on 1984 models, the oil pan and rear main bearing cap must be removed. On 1985 and later models, an oval cast on the engine block indicates a one-piece seal, accessible by removing the flywheel/driveplate. Special tools are needed for 1984 models with rope-type seals, while both halves of the seal must be serviced for two-piece neoprene seals. For 1985 and later models with one-piece seals, the transmission and flywheel/driveplate are removed.

The rear crankshaft seal can be replaced without removing the oil pan or crankshaft. Remove the transmission. If equipped with a manual transmission, remove the pressure plate and clutch disc. Remove the flywheel or driveplate. Using a seal removal tool or a large screwdriver, carefully pry the seal out of the block. Don't scratch or nick the crankshaft in the process. Clean the bore in the block and the seal contact surface on the crankshaft. Apply a light coat of engine oil or multi-purpose grease to the outer edge of the new seal. Lubricate the seal lip with moly-base grease. Press the new seal into place with a special tool or tap it in with a hammer and punch until it's seated in the bore. Note: A new rear crankshaft seal with improved sealing characteristics is installed on engines built since December 8, 1986. A special installation tool, available at most auto parts stores, comes with a removable shim. This shim is only used with the old style seal. DO NOT use this shim with the new style seal. Install the flywheel or driveplate. If equipped with a manual transmission, reinstall the clutch disc and pressure plate. Reinstall the transmission.

Remove the old seal from the engine's front cover with a screwdriver, avoiding damage to the crankshaft. Position the new seal with its open end facing the cover's inside. Reinstall parts in reverse order. If the cover is detached, remove the timing chain cover and extract the old seal. Also, avoid damaging the cover. Position the new seal with the open end facing the cover's inside. Use a wood block and hammer to seat the seal. Reinstall the timing chain cover.