Genuine 1985 Mercury Capri Crankshaft Seal

1985 Mercury Capri Crankshaft Seal Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the Crankshaft Seal in 3.8L V6 and V8 engine on 1985 Mercury Capri?

  A: To replace the front seal with the timing chain cover in place, start by removing the bolts that attach the fan shroud to the radiator and reposition the shroud over the fan. Next, take out the fan/clutch assembly and the shroud, followed by the drivebelts. Mark the crankshaft pulley and vibration damper for reassembly, then unbolt and remove the pulley. After that, remove the bolt from the front of the crankshaft and use a puller to detach the vibration damper, ensuring the puller applies force to the hub only to avoid damage. Clean the crankshaft nose and seal contact surface on the vibration damper, leaving the Woodruff key in place. Carefully extract the seal from the cover using a small chisel and hammer, taking care not to damage the cover or seal bore. If the engine has high mileage, apply penetrating oil to the seal-to-cover joint before removal. Inspect the seal bore and crankshaft for nicks and burrs, then position the new seal in the bore with the open end facing inward, applying a small amount of oil to ease installation. Drive the seal into the bore with a large socket and hammer until fully seated. If installing a new vibration damper, ensure balance pins are positioned as in the original, and apply grease or oil to the seal contact surface. Install the damper on the crankshaft, aligning the keyway with the Woodruff key, and if necessary, tap it into place. Reinstall all parts removed for access and check for leaks after starting the engine. If the timing chain cover is removed, drive the seal out from the back side using a punch or screwdriver, supporting the cover to avoid distortion. Clean the bore and position the new seal with the open end facing inward, then drive it into place until fully seated. For the rear seal, remove the transmission and detach the flywheel or driveplate along with the rear cover plate. Pry out the old seal, noting its recess depth for the new seal. Clean the crankshaft and seal bore, checking for any damage that could affect the new seal. Apply oil to the outer edge of the new seal and grease to the seal lips, ensuring it is pressed squarely into the bore without hammering directly. Reinstall the engine rear cover plate, flywheel or driveplate, and transmission.