No response on the Allis board, I'll try here: Rear crank seal on Allis C

[atlarge54]

Getting ready to order parts here and wondering about the rear main seal. The basic engine rebuild kit is not too clear about inclusion of front and rear main seals (they don't appear to be included in complete gasket sets). There appears to be a felt or cork seal for the rear. I"ve done the cork one in the past and it worked just fine, is the felt one a better choice? There also appear to be two different front seals. The front seal is no big deal---just a lip seal with a different OD. I think I'll phone the order in to get some clarification.

 

[JIM MN]

Cork seal for the rear. Have used cork before, no leaks! Make sure everything involving the rear-main is in good shape? Same for the front seal, look over close?

 

[atlarge54]

The reason I'm asking is because the engine I'm working on now had a horribly failed cork rear main seal. It's hard for me to imagine the level of damage to be anything but improper installation.

The only cork seal I've ever done was about 15 years ago on an Allis C and I can't recall if I used brass shim stock to help guide it over the crank. I most certainly do remember being shocked that I actually got the thing installed with no damage. I thought maybe the felt seal might be less prone to damage.