wirenut

When installing the seal in the timing cover (for the crank/balancer) do you use a sealant or does it go in dry? Thanks for any help.

MiguelsC2

No sealant needed. I do put a little permatex on the crank key when installing the balancer. Make sure the keyway is clean and oil free

Vet65te

It can't hurt to apply a little silicone sealant to the outside of the timing seal since it's basically metal to metal where it contacts that timing cover. And, anytime you use a sealant, make sure to clean the contact surfaces first to eliminate any oils or contaminants.
Mike T.

Westlotorn

When installing any seal that depends on a interferance fit to hold it in place it is recommended by National Seal Company to wipe the receiving surface with a silicone sealer just before tapping in the seal. This should be no more than a thin film of silicone ( so thin it is nearly invisible ) to fill in any scratches or small leak paths that might exist in the used part you are putting this seal into. If you use excess silicone in this procedure you can potentially cause problems.
Be sure to oil the seal surface and the harmonic balancer before installing your harmonic balancer. A dry seal will overheat and possibly be damaged before oil can be pumped or splashed to the area for lubrication.

Lee H

I've always wiped the two surfaces clean with brake clean, put a small amount of permatex on the metal lip, and put some assembly lube on the rubber part of seal and balancer.

wirenut

Thanks for the advice, got it together last night.