I mean you just pry it out and it cannot go in.

Brandon,

Are you saying that it would not be easier to use a press? Are you saying I am better of doing it another way? What way should I do it? I have not been able to find anything on this forum or on youtube, or anywhere else. I have not even taken the old seal out yet, so I have no idea what to expect.

Maybe the misunderstanding is that I already have the cover off. I am not trying to do this with the cover on the engine. Should I do it with the cover on the engine?

It's almost impossible to put the seal in crooked. Small taps around the edges and work it in slowly and you'll be fine.

You can even use a vice as a press, it goes in that easy. Put a small amount of oil around the outer edge and start working it in.

Front Crankshaft Oil Seal Replacement | DIY at Home!


Obviously not a BMW engine, but a similar type of seal.

Why would I use as a vice as a press when I have a real press? I guess what I am asking is will it be detrimental or dangerous to use a press?

I have never used a press to install a seal like this. The seal is mainly rubber, I'm not sure why you would even want to use a press. Watch the video I posted above.

VW's use the same type of seal and I was a VW tech for about 10 years, never once used a press or special tool to install a front or rear main seal. Pick and a small hammer.

After I take the old seal out is there a lip or something that will stop me from pushing the seal in to far? Or do I just make the seal flush with the cover?

I have a sense that you haven't done this type of work before. Perhaps you could ask a friend or or acquaintance with technical training to drop over?

The problem with using a press is that you don't get any feedback. I haven't done this on a BMW but it looks just like many other vehicles. Install it like any other similar seal. To the same depth as the old one.

There is a lip to keep it from going in too far.