Replace trans seals

Post by **Sveedy** » 15 Jan 2022, 15:19

So with the engine out, I'm tempted to replace the transmission seal behind the torque converter, as well as the axle seal.
But on the other hand, " if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Trans only has 150k on it. I do have the Corteco seals on hand, but maybe the original ones will outlast these replacements. Would you leave well enough alone, or replace ?
Thanks

Post by **MoVolvos** » 15 Jan 2022, 20:09

Sveedy wrote: ↑15 Jan 2022, 15:19 So with the engine out, I'm tempted to replace the transmission seal behind the torque converter, as well as the axle seal.
But on the other hand, " if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Trans only has 150k on it. I do have the Corteco seals on hand, but maybe the original ones will outlast these replacements. Would you leave well enough alone, or replace ?
Thanks

A couple of things to consider. How hard are the old seals compared with the Cortecos? If you lack confidence in the Cortecos should just buy the OE. Might as well replace them seeing you put very few miles on the car and will not likely go into there again.

*

Post by **FireFox31** » 18 Jan 2022, 18:46

Seems like the cost to replace the seal with the transmission out is a fraction of the cost to remove everything and do it later.

I would consider redoing the seal around the transmission valve cover body as well. Mine is weeping a little at 200k. It's possible to do when installed but requires removing some subframe connections and shifting things to get the cover off. Surely it would be much easier with the transmission out. I'm no expert, so double check this with other users who actually know.

Post by **scot850** » 18 Jan 2022, 19:29

I had the dealer do this when my rear main failed. Needless to say the new trans seal failed again almost immediately and it was an OE Volvo part. They had to pull the trans and do it all over!

Neil.

Post by **cn90** » 18 Jan 2022, 19:48

The 2 reasons tht seals leak:

1. It folded over itself during installation. To avoid it, apply a bit of oil/grease, rotate it as you install.

2. Wrong DEPTH. Every single mm counts.

I only use Corteco.

It is the original mfg.

Just make sure the DEPTH of insertion is correct. Take photos, pay close attention to where the original factory sits from the bevel edge.

Look closely with a loop, you will see the bevel edge of the housing.

Use wood to tap it in, and appropriate PVC Coupler to gently tap it in.
Usually, it is only 1-2 mm inward of the bevel edge.

I posted some photos in the 1998 S70 and 2004 V70 forums...

Timing Belt Seal folded over:
viewtopic.php?t=53722&start=10

Wrong DEPTH mistake:
viewtopic.php?f=1&t=64252&start=30

Post by **Sveedy** » 18 Jan 2022, 20:15

At this point I'm just looking at doing the one seal behind the torque converter. Seems easy enough to do now, and the new seal will probably last longer than what ever life is left on the original. Nothing leaks - yet. The trans is still in the car - I pulled the engine separately.