Expert: Brad Sears - 2/8/2010

Question
hi Brad i came across the forum and am going dizzy trying to read all the posts the problem im having is with a 56 Cadillac series 62 rear rope seal i replaced it and its worse now guess i need more practice ive done the rope seals before with success not this time however the thrust bearing is good about 035 clearance the question i have i suppose is that when i took out the old one it was offset about a half inch i am wondering if i should try to reinstall it that way i am putting in a fel pro BS5974 grafite impregnated seal i thought the correct procedure was to cut the seal about flush with about 1/16 sticking out from the block surface and the same on the cap an tips you could give me would be greatly appreciated thanks for your time

Answer
Ok, here is my take on your problem. .035" is too much clearance on the thrust bearing. I like to limit it to .010". Second I like to trim the seal flush as the new rope seal have a neoprene liner that will swell when oil hits it and complete the seal integrity. Also I have had the seal material hold the cap slightly from seating if it is cut above the parting line. Then with a rope seal installation I like to run the engine just above an idle for 30 minutes or more to seat the seal before winding the engine up and am not concerned about oil leaks during this break in period. Also check the rear main bearing clearance. If it is over .003" it will pound the seal out. There are some rebuilders that off set the seal but I have never done it that way. Good luck and keep me posted.
Brad