A J I wrote:
> I have finally traced down the oil leak on my 91. As near as I can tell it
> is the crankshaft seal. The "bible" shows the seal and lists a tool
> #(whatever) along with the torque formula. Since I dont have the VW specific
> tool and probably never will I was wondering if anyone here on the list has
> done this seal replacement and can offer some insight? From looking at the
> manual and the cut away with the "tool" it seems that it just goes through
> the locating holes and holds the pulley so one can unbolt it. Would it be
> possible to just put a couple of bolts through the pulley to "hold it" while
> the nut is removed? The seal replacement is simple enough and pretty
> straight forward but its the pully removal without the specific tool that is
> causing concern.
> I am going to struggle through it but I was hoping for someones expertise to
> save me knuckle skin and trial and error time. Has anyone done this seal
> replacement that can offer some "tips"?
>
> Thanks,
> A J
>
A J,

While seals at both ends of the crank can leak, the most common seal to
leak is at the end forward in the Van that carries the flywheel. For
that seal, Bob Donalds had a video out that was most excellent in
explaining how to do it, and what to watch out for. If you can get a
copy of that is is well worth having. As for the other seal at the rear
of the van - I can;t help. Never had the problem there. But the Flywheel
Seal, as it is called. has had to be changed twice and it is about to
happen a gain next week.

Good luck.

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver