REAR MAIN SEAL REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE REVISED

This information is to revise the 1982 J2000 Service Manual procedures of rear main seal repair.

This procedure must be followed precisely step by step to assure a viable repair of a rear main seal leak.

1. Remove oil pan and oil pump.

2. Remove rear main bearing cap.

*3. Use packing tool J-29114-2 and gently drive upper seal into groove approximately 1/4". Do this on both sides.

NOTICE: Do not replace upper seal without removing the crankshaft.

*4. Using tool J-29590, pack a new seal securely into rear main cap. Remove this seal from the cap and, using a sharp knife, cut a section 1/8" longer than the amount the seal was driven into the case. (Use caution not to fray ends of seal.)

*5. Install this cut section into tool J-29114-1 and position tool to cylinder block aligning the groove which contains the seal piece with the groove in the block and position tool firmly against crankshaft.

*6. Using packing tool J-29114-2, pack the short piece cut in Step 4 into the cylinder block. The guide tool and packing tool have been machined to provide a built-in stop. Repeat Steps 4, 5 and 6 for the other side of the block.

*7. It may help to use a light film of oil on the short pieces of rope seal when packing them into the cylinder block.

*8. Install a new rope seal in rear main bearing cap, pounding firmly on tool J-29590, and cut ends of seal flush with cap while tool is still in place. (Use caution not to fray ends of seal.)

*9. Place a piece of plastic gaging material on the rear main bearing or journal.

10. Install the rear main bearing cap and torque to 95 N.m (70 ft. lbs.).

11. Remove the rear main bearing cap and measure the plastic gage for bearing clearance. If out of specification, recheck the ends of the seal for fraying that may be preventing the cap from fully seating. Correct as necessary.

12. Clean plastic gage from journal and bearing then lightly oil bearing.

*13. Apply a 1mm bead (approximately 1/32") of anaerobic sealant (number 1052357 or equivalent) to the cap between the rear main seal end and the oil pan rear seal groove.

NOTICE: Keep sealant off the rear main seal, bearing and out of the drain slot.

14. Just prior to assembly, apply a light coat of engine oil on the crankshaft surface that will contact the seal.

15. Install rear main bearing cap. Torque bolts to 95 N.m (70 ft. lbs.).

16. Install oil pump and oil pan.

*17. When running engine to confirm leak repair, insure the PCV system including fresh air pipe from air cleaner to rocker cover is fully assembled.

*Denotes change from original Service Manual procedures.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.