Is this the input shaft seal and do I have a dam seal?

[audi]

Sorry for the dumb question - this was in the 915 gasket/seal set, and while I assume it's the input shaft seal as it's the only one like it, I wanted to make sure because it didn't come in an individual baggie with a part number. I can't really tell what the old one looks like without pulling it, and don't want to pull the old one yet if this ain't it.



Also does the kit include the "dam seal" and does an 86 use one?

I would've called our host but they're closed today, and I'd like to replace this/these items this afternoon if possible.

If anyone can confirm this, that would be great,
Thanks!

[E Sully]

You can compare it to the ones sold individually in the catalog.
I believe the dam seal was only needed on the early pre '73 915's before they changed the design.

Pelican Parts - Product Information: 999-113-183-40-M30
Pelican Parts - Product Information: 999-113-185-40-M30
Pelican Parts - Product Information: 999-113-327-40-M30

[kwikt 911]

That seal pictured is for the 72 915 tranny. I have done my 72 a few times already.To replace that seal you have to disassemble the tranny to install. The kit does not include a dam seal. Your 86 911 uses a different seal which can be replaced from the bell housing area. Simple replacement and does not need the dam seal. Oh yea, if you don't need it you can always send it my way.

[audi]

Thanks for the replies and explanation of the dam seal, now that's under control.

I'm surprised that a correct input shaft seal (999-113-327-40-M30) isn't included in the 915 gasket/seal set, or when you order the super clutch kit, as that kit does include the guide tube o-ring. If you go to the trouble to remove the guide tube, why would you replace just the o-ring and not the seal?

Anyway, correct seal is ordered, project is almost done, kwik you have a PM.

[Grady Clay]

Guys & gals,

The “Dam Seal” is useful regardless of model.
Every input shaft seal will leak at some point … the “Dam Seal” simply prevents the leaking oil from contaminating your clutch.
When (not if) the input shaft seal fails, with a “Dam Seal”, the transmission oil simply dribbles down the casting and leaves you a ‘message’ on your garage floor, not damaging your clutch.
A “Dam Seal” addition should be part of every competent transmission repair.


Here is my original (I think) 2004 post:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/196173-input-shaft-seal-problem-915-mag-case.html
There are a number of others:
Pelican Parts Technical BBS - Search Results
I should condense these into an easily searchable “How-To” thread.

It would be useful to compile the different “Dam Seal” part numbers and ‘installed depth’ for the various model transmissions.
I have the parts and tools (‘of local manufacture’) for 901 (& 356 & VW), ’72 915, ’73-’76 915 and the ’76 and later removable (915) guide tube.
You will find this mod in almost every transmission I had influence over from 1972 onward (including earlier transmissions).

Manufacturers (including Porsche) don’t consider the service of their product at the age of our 911s.
In the original design, for a few cents (pfennigs) more, the 356 & 901/911 guide tubes could have had this feature.
As I have said, the ’72 915 input shaft oil seal design couldn’t pass and engineering ‘laugh test’. I suspect there may be more current examples.

Best,
Grady

[callard]

After suffering through several early 915 input shaft seal failures in two differend boxes, iI was cursing the engineers. A possible culprit is slightly smaller OD Elring seals that walk when the case gets hot. Suggestions for fix are the Wevo update or updating to an external guide tube bell housing.
Chuck

[Phrog]

Ok I'm bringing this 13 year old thread back to life.

Grady (RIP) mentions a "dam" seal in the guide tube on a 901 gearbox. Has anyone installed one of the extra measures and if so where did you find one? Any information will be appreciated.
Thanks!