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MG TD TF 1500 - Front Seal - Volvo type

I know that this subject has been discussed - that the Volvo double lip seal on the front is a good way to stop leaks.

My question -- is it possible to replace this seal by only removing the timing chain cover and not disturbing the oil pan???

It seams that I did this many years ago and did not need to remove the oil pan - but I am having a very serious senior moment about what I did!

Help - I need somebody! Help not just anybody! - but anyone with TD brains
Michael Balahutrak

I remove the oil pan, actually very quick and easy. I mount the gasket to the pan with permeated gasket cement, and put grease on the gasket to block sealing surface. With this gasket set up, and the Volvo double lip camshaft seal on the front, I only have a minimal couple drop drip from the rear upon warm shut down.
The OD of the Volvo seal is slightly smaller than the mount area, it needs to be mounted in a bed of silicone, with the crank pulley installed. Once it sets, it is good to go. I use The Right Stuff from Pwrmatex. Make sure the seal is square and the pulley is installed to center the seal in the opening.
Be well,
David
D. Sander

Right now I have fairly easy access to the timing chain cover since I can remove the radiator without too much work -

I would rather remove the timing chain cover since the oil pan is on so well sealed and does not leak.

David from your description it appears you did not remove the timing chain cover??? If that is the case then the opposite should be workable and I should be able to replace the Volvo seal by just taking of the timing chain cover? Then just manipulate the new seal in place - use permatex (like you mention) as I did before, rotate it to find its own center and let it set?

I just cannot remember if there was enough clearance to maneuver a new seal in place without disturbing the oil pan

Also forgot to mention - I still have the transmission out so I can block the flywheel to remove the pulley
Michael Balahutrak

Couldn't do it on the TF, had to drop the pan down a bit to get the seal on, the rest is not so time consuming. If you just drop the front of the pan, you'll mess up the rear cork seal, best to drop the pan down equally, but then again you might get lucky. PJ
PJ Jennings

I've never tried, because it appears that even if you get it in there, you run the risk of damaging the seal. If you drop the pan, I would drop it all the way and renew the gaskets. Doing otherwise would risk causing major oil leaks.
Steve Simmons

I have to remove the timing chain cover, too. Fairly simple operation.
D. Sander

This thread was discussed on 10/02/2021

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