Help! 74 1602 rear crankshaft seal fitment issue

[Ron C]

Hello and thanks for reading and the help!  I’m working on my 1974 1602, 4 speed manual that I purchased 3 years ago.  I just recently pulled the 4 speed manual to replace the clutch and all was going well.  I’m replacing the flywheel, clutch disc and pressure plate with a 215mm - the original was a 200mm.  Sourcing a new throw out beating has been challenging and I’m still working on that.  Here is where I’m stuck. I was replacing the rear crankshaft seal and CANNOT find a seal as thick as the original.  My micrometer is on the way out and I’ve ordered a new one but did confirm it’s several millimeters off - can’t remember the exact size number but will post photos.  I’ve searched the forums but can’t find where shins are available (online too) or a ticker seal.  The new one is 90x110x12 and is too shallow.  I’m at a loss other than having a custom shim made or finding the correct seal - which seems to not exist.  Any suggestions??? Thank you in advance.  Ron 

[Ron C]

The old seal measures 90x110x14

The new seal measures 90x110x12

Shims are no longer available via online search.  Ron 

[tzei]

Tap it gently and evenly flush with cleaned cover.

[Ron C]

Thanks tzei and if it’s that simple, I’m an idiot.  I’m worried about the seal walking and leaking later. 

[stephers]

With the narrower seal. you can place it in the rear seal housing where it won't ride in the same place on the crankshaft as the original.    Usually there is a slight marking on the crank seal surface where the original  sat.      This allows a new clean surface for the new seal to contact     Where ever you put the seal in the housing, it will not "walk" either way

 

Thanks, Rick

[Ron C]

Thanks Rick, I appreciate you taking the time to respond.  I’ve read the horror stories of buttoning everything back up only to have the seal leak.  I’ll be sure to follow your advice.  This project is making my M3 subframe drop a piece of cake in comparison.  Still, I love the 2002s.  

[jimk]

Where it's set, don't warp the seal when driving it in.

[stephers]

Get a PVC pipe plug    about 4 1/4" at the threaded end, perfect size for putting in the oil seal into the housing  better if you have a press          Oh and do the oil seal with the housing off the engine.

 

Thanks, Rick

[Ron C]

Thanks, Rick.  I’ll pick up PVC plug this weekend! Great tip.