"Crankshaft seal" vs "Rear main seal"

[The Warden]

Quick question...

What the sam-hill is the difference between a "crankshaft seal" and a "rear main seal"? I had been under the impression that the terms were interchangeable, but I did a search on partsamerica.com for both names and came up with completely different results. The prices for the "crankshaft seal" average about $50, while the prices for the "rear main seal" average about $30.

I called Ford, and they said they wanted $61 for a rear main seal.

So, what's going on? I need to figure this out today, as if my stress level wasn't high enough... *sigh* I figure that, while I've got the flywheel off in the process of changing out hte tranny, I may as well put a new seal on...especially since mine is currently leaking (due to crankcase overpressure that's since been corrected; I think the mating surface is fine).

Thanks!

 

[Agnem]

Warden, what do they call the seal on the front of the engine? I'd go with rear main seal myself, and the one from Ford comes with some extra's I've heard.

 

[towcat]

Quick question...

What the sam-hill is the difference between a "crankshaft seal" and a "rear main seal"? I had been under the impression that the terms were interchangeable, but I did a search on partsamerica.com for both names and came up with completely different results. The prices for the "crankshaft seal" average about $50, while the prices for the "rear main seal" average about $30.

I called Ford, and they said they wanted $61 for a rear main seal.

So, what's going on? I need to figure this out today, as if my stress level wasn't high enough... *sigh* I figure that, while I've got the flywheel off in the process of changing out hte tranny, I may as well put a new seal on...especially since mine is currently leaking (due to crankcase overpressure that's since been corrected; I think the mating surface is fine).

Thanks!

tim-
to do this job right, you will want to get the rear main seal "kit". seal and a "v" shaped gasket. Also a tube of ultra grey silicone is good for the oil pan too. Any competent local auto parts supply store should be able to the gasket kit. if you don't R&R the rear plate and change out the seal, you will ruin the seal trying to take a shortcut. BTW, the FEL-PRO kit should set you back $35-40. If you need the part put on will-call at Intex, call me. the number works out here.