The first step when changing the crankshaft main bearing seal requires the manual transaxle assembly removal for vehicles with manual trasmission or the automatic transaxle assembly removal for vehicles equipped with automatic transmission. The clutch cover assembly must be removed first before proceeding to take out the
Clutch Disc assembly in manual transaxle vehicles. Special Service Tools 09960-10010, 09962-01000, and 09963-01000 must be used for manual transaxle vehicles to hold the crankshaft before removing the 8 bolts and flywheel sub-assembly. Special Service Tools 09960-10010, 09962-01000, and 09963-01000 can be used to hold the crankshaft followed by removal of 8 bolts and the drive plate & ring gear sub-assembly of automatic transaxle vehicles. To eliminate the engine rear oil seal you need to utilize a knife to trim its lip before extracting it by using a screwdriver that has tape wrapped around its tip. Visible damage to the crankshaft should be inspected. Smooth any present damage by applying 400-grit sandpaper.