Tranny Seal Replacement

[maf 914]

I hope someone can help me with this. I have the engine and transmission out of my car and want to replace the input shaft seal to make sure my new clutch stays dry. My problem is that I can't figure out how to pull the old seal out. The Haynes manual says to remove the guide tube, which I did, and to remove the seal with a small sharp screwdriver while being careful not to scratch the shaft or the bearing housing. I tried but don't quite understand how this should be done. Should I puncture the seal and pull it out with a hooked pick or wire?

Thanks,
Mike

[red-beard]

Usually I do this with the tranny apart, so I drive it inside. You can replace the seal the way Haynes describes. You want to use the screwdriver as a lever and pop the seal out. Sometimes you need to push it in a little to break the varnish to get it out.

Personally, I would replace _all_ of the seals on the tranny if you have the tranny out of the car. And again, if you have it out of the car, _I_ would pull the gear stack and check the condition of the synchros, dogteeth and sliders.

James