Lugardo

I have a 455 that is leaking at rear main, it has the dreaded rope seal. I've heard you could use a ford seal that is rubber and works perfectly. I don't know what size ford engine seal is used. Can someone please help.

Thanks

Olds64

Lugardo, check it out!

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...main-seal.html

Apparently, you need a Ford 460 rear main seal. However, I guess there is extra machining that needs to be done to the crank to get it to work.

cutlassefi

Not true, goes right in. It rides on a different area of the seal surface than the rope seal does.

Lugardo

Thanks guys. I will buy one and try it. I'll let everyone know how it works.

Octania

It couldn't possibly hurt to run a strip of emery cloth over the seal surface of the crank to ensure it's nice and smooth. Fine grit of course.

matt69olds

I have always used the Ford seal on a unmachined crank with no issues. Just whisper soothing words and lovingly polish your car after, hopefully it wont be too upset that you installed "brand X" parts!

MDchanic

Also look here for specific numbers, and here for info on orientation.

- Eric

Olds64

FWIW, I didn't read much of the thread I provided a link to. You can always change to the Ford 460 rear main seal, but make sure you know that if you change then the guy with the red beard will surely know. There is no fooling that guy!