Front Crank Oil Seal Replacement AJP

[WIL35]

Have been getting on with some winter jobs, like replacing the heater pipes. While doing this I saw a glistening oil drop under the front crank seal🙁. I knew there was a leak, but thought (hoped) it could be from the crankcase breather.

Anyway, the car is currently up on QuickJacks in my garage. What are my options? Is it possible to disconnect a few things (exhaust, coolant hoses etc), put a trolley jack underneath and lift the front of the engine so the crank pulley clears the crossmember? I don't really want to try and take the engine completely out, I don't think my garage roof will have enough height. Or do I just reassemble the car and book it in to have fixed?

I've posted this on FB, but am aware some of the community aren't on there. Thanks!

[notaping]

You might be able to do it in place by removing coolant pipes for access. The pulley can be removed by taking out the 4 cap head screws and the crank end bolt. Then the drive sleeve can be prized out (watch out for the woodruff key), and finally the seal housing can be removed. Although I believe the last bit might be engine year specific.

Your main problem as you know will be access, but if you can get the pulley clear then I think you should manage the rest by moving the engine around a bit. Might need to remove the front engine mounts to drop the front or move it side to side.

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[WIL35]

Thanks notaping! Jules and Andy have confirmed on FB that my seal housing is a pre modification one without the separate part holding the seal .I think this makes it a bit more difficult to replace even when I have access! Will make some calls.....