scrappie

Just tried replacing the pitman arm seal on my 71 cutlass. Was not a fun job but I was able to get the rubber seal out and install a new one. The new one did not go in that easy but it did finally seat enough for the washer and snap ring to install. The problem is that is still leaking and worse than before. Any ideas on what is wrong?

joe_padavano

Are you talking about the seal on the output shaft of the steering box? If so, it's likely the shaft itself is scored.

scrappie

How does the shaft get scored?

joe_padavano

Removing the old seal?

Seriously, the Chassis Service Manual suggests using a piece of shim stock wrapped around the shaft to prevent damage during seal replacement. Assuming you were careful and this is not the problem, road dirt gets into the seal and acts as sandpaper on the shaft while you drive. Same problem with crankshaft snouts, which is why FelPro sells a repair sleeve for the crank. I'm unfortunately not aware of one for the steering box.

Jim's rare 80

Are you 100% sure all the parts were re-installed correctly?
Just a thought.

scrappie

I am pretty sure, I got both seals out and replaced them. When installing I used a big socket to seat the seals. Two seals and two metal washers and then a snap ring.

hialeah56

You probably just need to remove it again inspect the shaft and if you didn't score the shaft, as stated by Joe, reinstall a new one being extra carefull. Seals get damaged real easy, make sure you use a little grease when installing and a lot of love taps not beat the crap out of it

joe_padavano

Good info, but you do realize we're about to celebrate this thread's second birthday...

hialeah56

wow, I saw this on the bottom of the screen and read it and didn't notice the date, the poor olds would have bled to death by now