Am replacing the rear main seal on a 41 Olds 6 cyl. I have replaced these type seals before but never encountered a real problem. The new seal is correct but have failed to pull the seal through after numerous attempts. I am using the Chinese finger type of tool to pull the seal,but it keeps slipping out of the tool. I tried using the sneaky pete puller but it broke on the first attempt. Any suggestions.

 

Ouch! I have never had that difficulty before so can't specifically help you but best of luck. Moving thread for better exposure, hopefully.

 

I tried as you did on a 59 394 engine. Could not pull it up and over. While pulling I had someone rotate crank manually and rolled the seal into place. I never checked the results after the job so I dont know if it worked or not.

 

I have also installed a seal in this manner and it worked out fine