fluid drive seal

[Phil Martin]

Just put 8 ozs of oil in my fluid drive for second time in 2 mos. I'm sure seal is leaking can the fluid drive unit be taken out without pulling motor? The shop manual isn't real clear on this. I hope someone still sells these seals and that I can change it.

[PatS....]

The fluid coupling replaces the flywheel on FD cars. The engine can stay put but the transmission has to come out. The clutch is bolted to the fluid coupling

There are 8 bolts holding the fluid coupling to the crankshaft. About as involved as doing a clutch.

[Tom Skinner]

Phil,

The Fluid Drive Unit should come out by removing the Transmission, Lower Clutch Pan, and Clutch, without removing the engine, it does, however, necessitate some special tools to do so. Andy Bernbaum used to sell the Seals his phone no. is (617) 244-1118. One must remember a few special tools (Fluid drive Kit C-639) are also required to service the Fluid Drive Unit Seal change out as well. A couple of Pullers and A Burnishing Tool as well as Patience to do it right the first time.

No forcing anything or scorring around the Seal would be advisable or the end result would once again result in leaks. Losing say 8 oz every few thousand miles isn't really that bad unless it effecting the clutch. I would just add Fluid.

If you should elect to do it Page 55 - 60 in the Chrysler Service Manual tells how to remove the unit, and service the Seal.

Good Luck!

Tom

[Dodgeb4ya]

Yes, There are some factory tools to service the FD coupling. If you are inventive you can get the job done with out them . You need a BIG socket to remove the clutch plate retaining nut, a big wide puller to remove the clutch plate, a special 4 prong spanner wrench to remove the Bellows seal (1946-early 1950 style) or Seal retaining sleeve for late 1950 and up depending on year of car or truck. The late 1950 type of FD coupling seal requires another spacial Miller tool kit for R&R of the graphite seal.

Also sometimes it's the copper/brass bellows seal that fails and leaks (gets pinholed) and is the cause of the leakage. Normally the graphite ring seal is all that needs to be replaced. Cleanliness is a must too!

Some pics of the early style graphite ring seal and bellows seal-fits 1946-early 1950 Mopar cars and trucks.

Bob