Difference in early vs. late small-block rear main seal?

Hi, I have a '57 Chevy 283 and need to replace the old rope rear main seal with a new-style neoprene seal. Unfortunately the new 2-piece seal I got that was supposed to be good for all small blocks is actually too big in diameter. Does anyone have a recommenation on where to get a smaller diameter neoprene seal for early blocks? I read elsewhere that the rear main diameter changed in '58 or '59.

Thanks.

 

as far as i know , there is no replacement fot the rope type seal used in 55-56-57-58. chevy went to the two piece in 1959 , then to the modern one piece in 1986

 

Thanks 36 3-window,

I did replace the original old rope seal with a new rope seal last summer. Bastard still leaks. I getting tired of topping off the oil after any long drive so I'm hoping someone out there can provide another option...

thanks!

 

I think I'll give this one a try:

http://www.lategreat.com/merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=LGBTYCPO&Product_Code=26-51&Category_Code=

I hope it works better than a rope seal! Seems like it should. Atleast its's good to know there's an available option. Plus this company has excellent customer service, they were very helpful.

Perhaps next time I'll title my post "Von Dutch sucks" or something like that to be sure it gets more views and replies.

 

Don't be afraid of high temp RTV either. Its copper RTV. I use it all over the place. Let it sit 24hrs and its good to go!
Other than that I don't know of any replacemnt other than the rope style either. Looks like you found a good thing to try.

 

i learned something new , i didn't know something like that existed...thanks!