series IIA rear main seal

[dw1]

overhauling the engine, confused on rear main seal and retainer halves. what is the procedure for the retainer halves? Should the parts be replaced or scrape off the sealing materials?

[J!m]

The seal retainer had vulcanized rubber on it. If it is in good, soft condition with no cracks or cuts, it is good to go with a liberal application of Aviation form-a-gasket.

Normally, I just replace it with every re-build, as it is all but impossible to do later...

[Jazzop]

Do NOT scrape the rubber surface off the retainer halves unless there is obvious damage to them. And by all means replace the rear main seal while the motor is removed. I speak from experience. In situ replacement is nearly impossible.

[singingcamel]

replace it, your there..