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

I was wondering how to change the front engine seal. It looks like the front cross member is too close to the balancer. It is a standard eight. Does the enging have to be lifted up or does the balancer come apart?

29tons,

Yes, usually the engine needs to be jacked up slightly, approx. 1/8" to make it easier to remove the timing chain cover.

The harmonic balancer or damper does not need to be disassembled to replace the felt seal in the timing chain cover.

Once the nut on the front of the crankshaft is removed the harmonic balancer will slide off. Sometimes these are a tight fit to the crankshaft and may require a puller to remove.

You will have to remove the two bolts on each side of the front crankcase motor mounts, which will allow you to tilt the motor up slightly. Removing the nut at the front of the crankshaft will allow removal of the harmonic balancer.

With the balancer off, the nuts holding the front timing chain cover can be removed, and then the timing chain cover itself.

The front crankshaft seal is a felt seal that sits in a pocket in the front timing chain cover. Be sure to oil the new seal before installing it.

It would be a good idea to check the timing chain condition while you have this apart.

Order of dis-assembly:

Drain the cooling system and remove headlamps, hood, and radiator.

Loosen the water pump nuts and remove fan belt.

Loosen the crankshaft front nut and remove harmonic balancer.

Remove the two front motor mount bolts.

Jack up the front of the engine slightly, about 1/8".

Remove the front timing chain cover nuts.

Remove the front timing chain cover.

Remove and replace the felt seal, oil prior to installation.

G'day 29tons,
Just like to you and your '29 to PackardInfo.

thanks for the info I am on vacation but I will try that later this week when I get home. Tom

Ok I will try to later in the week. Im am not a computer wiz so we will see if I can do it thanks Tom

Tom,
for including your '29 Standard Eight Convertible Coupe in the Packard Owner's Registry.