I just got my engine back from the rebuild shop and will be installing the crankshaft. I was told that to install the rope like seal in the rear bearing required a special tool. Is there a tool or specific method of installing that seal? Anything else to watch out for during assembly?
Thanks

Richard Sabonis
1965 E-Type Roadster
1E10018

Submitted by NE52-32043 on Wed, 07/13/2005 - 11:21

Richard,

Yes, there is a specific method for installing that seal. Look at the shop manual. It should explain it fully in there, along with identifying the tool you need to do it.

As an alternative, there are now several companies that are making/adapting modern seals to the XK engine. I've seen a couple of companies in England that are offering them. You might contact Terry's Jaguar in Illinois and ask them if they know of a source. The old rope seals, even when installed right, will leak. So putting a modern seal in is well worth the money, as long as you're doing it. Just a thought.

Steve Weinstein, JTC-NJ
'70 XKE FHC, '69 XKE OTS