Do I need to replace the crankshaft seal?

[TJeeper]

I pulled my transmission, and found this:



Looks like there is some seepage, along with what looks to be sludge at the bottom of the seal. No dripping. I didn't take a picture of it, but there is a semicircular piece of foam on the dust shield that presses against it. The dust shield on the AW4 doesn't have it, so I'm not sure why it is there. Maybe a quick fix from the factory instead of replacing the seal properly. Do I need to replace the crankshaft seal, and how involved is that?

[mrblaine]

Originally Posted by TJeeper

I pulled my transmission, and found this:



Looks like there is some seepage, along with what looks to be sludge at the bottom of the seal. No dripping. I didn't take a picture of it, but there is a semicircular piece of foam on the dust shield that presses against it. The dust shield on the AW4 doesn't have it, so I'm not sure why it is there. Maybe a quick fix from the factory instead of replacing the seal properly. Do I need to replace the crankshaft seal, and how involved is that?

If it's not dripping, I wouldn't worry. Just tighten up the oil pan bolts to spec and keep an eye on it. You don't have to drop the tranny to replace the rear main anyway.

[TJeeper]

Thanks Blaine- one less thing to worry about.