How do you change rear main seal 1978 mark v?

Answer 1

From the factory, Lincoln installed a "rope" seal around the rear main bearing housing. Depending on the size (cubic inches) of the engine and or the date of manufacture, the rear main seal may require rope or neoprene.

Also, keep in mind that a replacement seal for the rope may also be a two piece neoprene part.

Word of advice. If the rear main seal is leaking, it's usually an indication of a worn rear main bearing..

Drop the oil pan after draining the oil and unbolt the rear main bearing cap.. The seal is exposed to the rear of the bearing and sits in a groove around the crankshaft.. It's not a difficult job, just dirty and time consuming..

If rope, loosen all main bearing caps and gently pry down on the crankshaft to unseat it from the block.. a fraction of an inch will do.. Then, gently insert a small screw into one end of the rope seal and with a pair of pliers, pull down on the seal while pushing up on the other end with a plastic or wood dowl.. The seal will roll out. Clean the area and insert the new rope seal using "chineese" fingers, which you can buy for cheap money. Follow the instructions on the seal package. Re torque the bearing caps and reverse for assembly.

If neoprene seal is to be installed (much better than rope) just lubricate the seal with clean engine oil and roll it into the upper cavity as directed by the instructions. It must face with the lip inside the crancase. Insert the bottome half into the cap.. I use a very small dab of silicone at each end of the neoprene and rope seals just for insurance. Small amount is best..

All this information is avaialble on YouTube or in any auto repair manual. The procedure is the same for all older Ford cars..