Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I replaced the main bearings on my 1941 120. However, I could not install the top rear main oil seal. I installed the bottom seal, but could not get the top one to go all the way in so I left it out. When it took off the bearing cap originally there were no seals in place. I though that replacing at least the bottom seal would help stop the oil leaking, instead it is worse. Any suggestions?
thank you in advance for your help

Casey, the reason you found no rear seal is because there isn't one! Your engine uses a slinger as an intergral part of the crankshaft in lieu of a mechanical seal, very common construction for that time. By installing a lower seal you blocked off the return passage by which the slinger returns excess oil to the crankcase.

Casey, you mentioned that you secured a seal and bearing ? Did the seal have a part # ? Not sure how you got a part that is not required. Maybe you got a pan seal not a bearing seal ? Big difference.

Thank you,
Since I have the pan off I'll take out the lower seal (which I had a heck of a time installing in the first place) and make sure my oil pan gasket is in good shape

You also mentioned an oil leak ? where was that leak ? Might be the pan gasket is blocking the return line from the slinger. If so, that would cause oil to spew out of the pan along the flange.