Caterham 1.8 K Series Rear Main Seal Replacement

[Sjwarden]

I have a leaking rear main seal on my 1.8k VVC Caterham.  Got the correct part and will be trying to replace this on my own.  Is it possible to do this job without removing the engine?  Can I just drop the transmission, remove the clutch and flywheel and replace from there?

 

Chassis is a 1999 S3 Super Seven.

 

Any advice appreciated.

[wdb]

I heard it was possible to remove the gearbox without removing the engine. So I tried it. 1995 S3 Lotus twincam. 
 

Trust me. Just pull the whole works. It’s much easier. 

[Sjwarden]

Thank you for that... I'll plan accordingly.

 

 

[MV8]

Drain the engine and transmission oil before pulling. Remove the rear main housing to change the seal in the housing, then use RTV when reinstalling the housing to the block and pan. Brake cleaner, razor blade, and scotch brite pad work well to prep the surfaces. Good time for a new crank pilot and clutch release bearing and check flywheel/clutch/pressure plate for condition.

[toldfield]

I was able to remove my engine separately from my transmission, but there were extenuating circumstances...

 

[Sjwarden]

LOL, that would make it easier.

[Sjwarden]

Engine is out.  Rear crank seal is leaking oil, so that is confirmed.  It looks fine but it is definitely leaking.

 

Checking clutch.  What do you all think, worth replacing disc or should this last a lot longer?  

 

I was thinking of just replacing while I am in here, but I am having trouble finding the part for the clutch disc.  It is an AP racing part, I believe 7.5 inch, 23 spline.  Anyone have a good part number for this?

 

Any thoughts or concerns on review of the pics please chime in, any help appreciated.

 

I am fabbing up a clamp for the new rear seal now and should have this pulled and replaced by tomorrow.

 

 

[MV8]

If the coil springs are not loose (don't rattle when you shake the disc) it can be reused. It's practically new as far as wear is concerned. Pilot is just a bush for this one so I'd reuse it with a tiny wipe of grease in the bush with a q-tip or pinky, not the input shaft. Don't want so much it is migrating out of the hot crank with rpm.

 

If the release bearing fork is pulled away with a spring outside the transmission, then the bearing is probably fine also as it only turns when shifting and turning by hand, it doesn't feel rough like there is dirt or gravel inside the bearing. Modern designs are always in contact and turning when the engine is running.

[Sjwarden]

Thank you, big help.  Will reuse the clutch disc then, seems in good shape.

[slowdude]

I have a little bit of a drip from my rear main seal after my engine out rebuild (DVA 1.8L K series). I just monitor my oil level. unless its pissing, I wouldnt worry too much. I've spent too much time on my K series to try and make it "perfect".. but when she runs shes great.