Hitchcocks Forum

I've a bit of wet sumping, which I think is largely down to the pump worm neoprene thing, but want to replace the crank shaft oil seal just in case.


So my question is about the best way to get out the old seal. Stab it with a small sharp screwdriver, or will that have it in bits and some of them in the sump?

Not done it myself but Mr H's tech notes on wet sumping says it's straightforward.

It is a straightforward job, but not exactly simple...


BUT I doubt very much if it is the crankshaft seal that is your problem. It is easy to confirm WHERE the oil is coming from: does the level in the tank drop? If YES, the problem most likely lies with the feed pump disc/plunger/seat.


Typically for the timing side oil seal to 'suddenly' start to leak, your main bearing is dying?
ANY small scratch/score/slop between the feed pump disc face and timing cover, or excessive clearance between plunger and disc can all cause Wet Sumping.


A loose sloppy fit quill seal will not help matters, so renew that for sure, and also check the condition of the Quill extension...


Reface the pump disc, and very finely lap (polish) the disc onto its seat again, NO imperfections! Smooth as glass. Then reasses the situation.