used tranny-do i need a new front seal?

**fordfan630** · 10-27-2009, 09:14 PM

I'm installing a used c4 into my ford, I heard from the previous owner of the tranny in I don't replace the front seal it is a guaranteed leak. Is this true? If so, whats the best way to replace it? any info is appreciated I don't have much experience with automatic trannys

**gbic1** · 10-27-2009, 09:24 PM

I would change it or have it done if you dont have a driver. Seals take shape and if it has been sitting out of a car the converter will drop down and push down on the seal. If you do it your self then pack the back of the seal with Vasolone to keep the spring from falling out.

**gregaust** · 10-27-2009, 11:00 PM

Yes definitely good insurance to change it out

**FEandGoingBroke** · 10-28-2009, 06:32 AM

Front AND Rear....

**fordfan630** · 10-28-2009, 11:48 AM

i'v heard of people installing the seals by usint a piece of pipe instead of a puller. i don't have a puller nor the right size pipe How else can I install it? Can I just tap it in with a block of wood going in a circular motion? (first tap at 12 o-clock, second at 1, third at 2...........) i've done this before with O seals

**gregaust** · 10-28-2009, 02:06 PM

Yes you can as long as you are careful and go steady

**Stuarta** · 10-28-2009, 03:42 PM

The old seals can be pried out with a screwdriver.
Then tapped in with a hammer.
Apply some sealant to the exterior of the seal because there could be some seepage.

**PaulS1950** · 10-29-2009, 01:17 AM

Be sure to lube the sealing surface of the seal and the snout of the converter or you can ruin the seal in minutes.

**jd75** · 11-03-2009, 05:37 PM

For sure do the front and rear, only a few bucks each. I take the old one out set the new one in and place the old one on top of it. Then a block of wood and easy taps. Using the old seal helps because its the same diameter as the new one and the block will distribute the pressure needed to get it to seat. And i always alternate with the hammer, 12 then 6 then 11 then 5 and so on. Basically if you start at 12 and just go around clockwise they seem to get wedged in on that one side and dont go in straight.

**mmerlinn** · 11-04-2009, 02:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fordfan630

I'm installing a used c4 into my ford, I heard from the previous owner of the tranny in I don't replace the front seal it is a guaranteed leak. Is this true? If so, whats the best way to replace it? any info is appreciated I don't have much experience with automatic trannys

Do you really want to take a chance of having to pull the transmission back out to replace a nickel-and-dime seal?