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Can’t Get Upper Rope Seal Out

boboh1

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Location
Claremont,CA
The upper rope seal on my 383 is really stuck up in there. Even with a small corkscrew like Sneaky Pete it rips out and won’t budge. Would loosening these bolts a bit help? Thanks IMG_2775.jpeg
 
When I replaced the rear main in my plow truck with a 318, I loosened all the main caps
I’m thinking that’s what I need to do. Did it take just a few turns of each bolt to lower the crank slightly?
 
Maybe take a drift punch and try driving it out to start, then grab it.
 
I loosened all the bolts and the crack did not move at all. Now what should I do?
 
I loosened all the bolts and the crack did not move at all. Now what should I do?
You have to get the main bearing saddles loose so they drop. Loosen each bolt 2 turns and tap the sides of the saddles with a hammer.
 
if this fails pour melts candle wax or warmed over under hot water in a eye dropper a mix of liquid wrench and then follow with a little brake fluid. Sounds crazy? Well it works. you may have to use a tiny wire drill bit in a thumb screw holder to penetrate prior. keep at it. Also a brass punch only please to help nudge it out
 
As mentioned loosen all the mains, It still won't drop much since the timing chain supports the front & the trans supports the rear... Don't use a steel drift punch, you risk damaging the seal surface on the crank.... Instead use a wooden dowel or aluminum rod... While tapping on the seal have someone turn the crank it the same direction it may help transfer motion to the seal... Once you get it to move a little pull with needle nose pliers while someone turns the crank...
 
Tried that and it would not budge at all.
besides loosening the main caps you will need an assistant to gently pry the crank down while you are tapping on the seal with a drift. I made a tool out of a long thin phillips screwdriver. Made it blunt put a slight bend to it so it would follow the cap and avoid the journal.
 
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