In the course of changing the flywheel on an '85 12a with 125,000 mi, would it be prudent to change the rear seal while it's exposed? There's currently no sign of failure.

 

Yep, its easy to do and you are already in there. Also make sure to replace the pilot bearing and
seal as well in the eshaft.

New flywheel? Resurfaced? Lighter?

 

Mr. Farrell, I'm going aluminum. I used steel back in my previous Rx life, but I'm willing to try even lighter in my old age.

 

If the pilot bearing is fine, leave it alone (give it new grease of course). Just get a new seal.

Only change the bearing if it feels bad. Ever changed a pilot bearing before? I built two engines recently. One needed a new bearing. The other didn't. Both got new seals. So use your judgement.

 

Since you have the tranny out I'd do all the seals on that I could as well.

I don't know Jeff, if I've got it out and its so cheap to replace, I'm replacing it. Its a choice of course.

 

Pilot bearing was replaced last fall, has only 3500 miles. That I'll leave for now. All the rest I will replace.

 

oh its fine, just give it a little grease

 

Some super good info here, got me thinking about doing the same thing while having the engine out of the car. Thanks guys!