1541 - opinions on oil leak?
 

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Updated at post 18

The oil seal behind the PTO is leaking. I removed the PTO and started the engine to see exactly where it was leaking and the seal was spinning inside the closure plate. I haven't removed the seal yet, but I'm hoping there is no damage to the plate. If there is damage to the plate, will a new seal still be able to work? Is there any kind of sealant or something I should use in the cover if it's worn? I've ordered a new seal and was hoping to hear from somebody who has had experience with a spun seal before while I'm waiting for the part to arrive.

Seals aren't as hard as the plate they go in. IIRC, that seal is rubber coated anyway. Pull the old, (clean things up) install the new. It will be fine. DO NOT put anything on the outside of that seal. Just drive it in. If it is rubber coated like I remember, it won't seal if it's not installed dry.

This should help: it's a write up I did on how to replace the crank seal on a Kohler Command, but the process should be the same. Hope it helps:

http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=33411

I changed one on a command and the old one was so loose it moved in and out but the new one fit tight so you should be good.

Thank you everyone for the replies, it's reassuring to hear that everything will likely work out fine for me. Is there a certain torque spec I should follow for the center bolt when re-installing the PTO clutch or just make it about as tight as it was when I removed it?

There is a spec but.......
I use an impact to install them.....:bigeyes:

This :beerchug:

It seems I remember the service manual saying to recess this seal 1/2". I've managed to install it 3/32" past 1/2", will this be ok or should it be redone? Will it interfere with any oil flow?

1/2" plus some seems like quite a bit to me. I just did 2 of them and I don't think I went in but maybe 1/4". Then again, I did Commands and you have a Mag, but the rule of thumb is better to shallow than too deep. Too deep can block oil passages, and unless you don't get it in all the way, you can't really go too shallow.

So if it is too deep, I guess my choices are to either get a new seal or take off the closure plate and tap it back out some?