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MG MGA - Wishful Thinking/Rear Transmission seal

Greetings to all and best wishes for a wonderful holiday!

I recently pulled my 1600 coupe out a long storage period and into the newly built garage just in time to beat the impending snow and cold weather. WHile doing so, I notice an oil spot directly under the rear of the transmission. I rebuilt the tranny just prior to storing it several months ago. Could a new oil seal be leaking? I'm hoping that once the tranny begins its new life and heat up, the new rear seal will soften and start doing its job correctly. Is this simply wishful thinking on my part? If so, and the need arises to replace the new seal, what is the best way since I put it in while the tranny was on the bench. I recall getting the rear nut to draw down to my satisfaction was a rather difficult task. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Robert Maupin

You say "just prior to storing it". Has it done any miles on the new seal?
Did you check the surface on which the seal runs?
Did you wet the lip of the seal with oil when fitting?
Did you use a suitable drift between the seal and your hammer to get the seal square when seated?
I suggest that you run it for a time to see if the leak stops. If not, replace the seal with the Differential in position.


Mick
M F Anderson

Mike:

A. No miles on the tranny, I'm in the middle of a frame off.

B. Yes.
C. Yes.
D. Yes....as I remember.

I'm not sure what you mean by " replace the seal with the differential in position?

Thanks for the reply.
Robert Maupin

Sorry, I misread your post. I was thinking of the rear axle.
The rear gearbox seal can be done in position. The driveshaft must be moved out of the way and it is preferred that the gearbox tunnel cover is not fitted. If you have the body off this is easy.
The problem is that if you want to get a few miles on the seal before replacing it the car will then be complete. It can still be done with the gearbox in the car, but just a bit harder.


Mick
M F Anderson

Personally, I doubt very much that running the car will improve the sealing properties of the transmission seal. Whenever I have had a problem like this with a seal, it was because, during installation, I dislodged the circular coil spring on the backside of the seal that that places tension on the seal lips.

Steve
Steve Brandt

Wes,

I have no answer for you on the leak.

It's good to see you got the garage finished. Just in time for winter. Guess you'll get some work done on the car over the winter.

Say hi to Pam for me.

David....
David Honness

This thread was discussed on 15/12/2008

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