Couple of questions. Anyone ever changed the main seal on a 292/312 while still in the car? Got the pan down tonight but that was it before I ran out of daylight. What am I in for? Also went to 3 parts stores to buy gaskets and seals, all I could find was a rope replacement for the main. Went ahead and ordered it but does anyone know where I can come up with the neopreme replacement I have read about? Will a get a good seal with a new rope type? Lotsa questions...need some HELP! Thanks
I've replaced some rope seals from underneath and it ain't usually easy. Lisle has a kit - a little corkscrew you screw into the seal and pull as you turn the crank - sometimes the whole seal will pull out. If it comes out in little pieces, there's another kit with some seal shaped metal pieces you use with a punch to drive the seal out. Then there's a Chinese handcuff (PC?) you use to pull the new rope seal around the crank as you turn it. It's good to have a helper turn the crank as you're doing this but I've done it by bumping the starter with a remote button - just watch your fingers. (pull the spark plugs so it turns easy) I'd do my best to find a neoprene seal to use - it's a lot easier than trimming the rope after it's in - and it'll just slip in with no hassle.
Here's a good article on the subject: http://www.y-blocksforever.com/tech/html/replacemainseal.html As I recall, one of the reasons a 292 is more desirable to build from than a 312 is because you can use a neoprene seal on the 292, while they only made rope seals for the 312. Another way to tackle it if you have a 312 and want to avoid the rope seal is to modify a FelPro Chrysler seal. Here's how: http://www.hydratech.com/pctc/Public_Documents/waltnuckels-mainseal.pdf
The 312 neopreme seal has been available for a few years now, get it thru Mummert or Reds. What ever the block, neopreme requires a perfect crank surface which is why they are mostly used during rebuilds. If the crank surface is in any way worn, grooved, etc then stick with a rope seal. Be sure to grease it up well before installing.
Mummert is probably the best source for a neophrene seal although other suppliers of Y Block parts should have it. Concours Parts also have it. If its a 292 you are working, I assume NAPA will have it. Availaible for both the 292 and 312 (but not the same seal for both). From what I have read, you have to get the engine at TDC in order to pull the pan so the counterweights are in the right spot so the pan will clear the suspension. This is if you have in a a 54-5? car.
Thanks....well I gave up on changing the damn thing standing on my head. I yanked the engine tonight which is no easy task with a half crushed hand. I really appreciate your help and advise. I really do not think much of the rope seal deal...Hate to go through all of this and have the SOB soak my new clutch.
Anyone have the torque specs for mains on this 56 312? All my engine manuals go back to 62....thats it. Was looking for a manual online maybe someone had scanned in.
Thats what I thought. Had young kid at a Napa tell me that 312 and 292 seals were the same part #. I will go back in the morning find someone else there to help me. Napa is supposed to carry the neoprene for both the 312 and 292. I would do the mail order thing....but I need to have this thing running by this weekend. If Napa cant get it next day, I will have to do an overnight with another source. THANKS
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