Crankshaft sealing rings (VW Golf 3)

During any operation to remove the crankshaft or O-ring flange, the front and rear O-rings must be replaced. To do this, take special precautions and use the special tools listed below. Both oil seal rings can also be changed when the engine is not disassembled, if a leak can be detected in the vicinity of them. Clutch slippage could, for example, be attributed to a leak in the rear oil seal ring.

Dismantling

When removing the front oil seal ring, it is necessary to dismantle the V-belt, adjusting cover, control belt and belt pulley together with the flywheel. To disconnect the crankshaft flywheel screws, engage fifth gear, firmly tighten the handbrake and disconnect the screw using a socket head.



To remove the front sealing ring, you usually need a tool, but in addition, you need a tool whose Allen screw is screwed as deep as possible into the crankshaft. Then you can use the removal tool. The removal operation is similar to that described for the camshaft sealing ring.

When removing the rear oil seal ring, remove the transmission, flywheel and clutch before the ring can be pressed out.





To remove the ring located at the rear end, use the tool shown in the figure or try to carefully push it out with a screwdriver. Do not damage the crankcase. If the engine is dismantled, unscrew the corresponding flange and remove it together with the seal. Then knock the sealing rings out of the flange (from the inside out).

Installation with the engine removed

Apply grease to the sealing lip and outer perimeter of the O-ring and gently tap it into the flange until the shoulder contacts the outer surface.

Carefully slide the flange with the seal on through the crankshaft, place it against the cylinder block and center it well. Tighten the screws evenly around it.

Installation with the engine installed

A device for tightening the front sealing ring is available for sale.



Pass the guide sleeve through the crankshaft journal, lubricate the inner and outer sides of the sealing ring with oil and pass the ring through the guide sleeve. Push the pressure sleeve of the tool through the guide sleeve and tighten the bandage until the sealing ring is seated. After this, dismantle the tool parts again.


When replacing the rear seal ring, tap it carefully with a hammer to center it. Be careful not to damage the sealing lip. Now use either the 2003/1 compression ring or make a round plate with a hole in the center for the crankshaft end to be located and use two screws to secure the appropriate tool in the threaded holes for the clutch pressure plate. By tightening both screws evenly, the oil seal ring can be brought into the correct position.