I'm looking to replace the front seal on my 93 5.2L and according to the service manual shared on the forum you can replace it without pulling the timing cover, which would be a big help. Either way it calls for a couple special tools and I'm curious if anyone had input/workarounds on this. First is the Front Oil Seal Installation Tool 6635, my buddy suggested using oversized sockets. I also read a post about using parts from a ball joint press kit. That seems pretty straight forward to me but if anyone has something to add, I'll listen. the other is the Puller Tool Set
C-3688, for removing the vibration dampener, no idea on that one, should i just buy or can rig something up? Thanks!

 

How bad is it leaking?

 

good question, I think bad enough to warrant changing. I'm not 100% sure, I'm changing the trans filter today and was gonna inspect it thoroughly to see if its leaking mostly from the seal like i suspect.

 

Getting the seal out is easy, putting the new one is, on the other hand... is tricky without the right tool. That said, you should be able to rent a seal driver kit from your local parts store..... Might need a puller for the balancer as well. They tend to hand on pretty tight.

 

Before tearing into it, I'd give AT-205 a try (see link below) This stuff is highly effective at rejuvenating seals (seals, not gaskets). Stopped my rear main seal leak in its tracks. Works for many people. If the leak is too big then it wont work. But smaller/medium sized leaks caused by degraded seal material will cease by bringing the seal back to life. A hell of a lot easier than doing all that work. Follow the instructions and check it at the appropriate interval on the label.