Rear Main Seal retainer?

[L0$]

I am currently doing a blacktop swap and was replacing every single gasket, hose, and filter I could possible think off when I ran into the rear main seal. I have researched how much a pain in the arse it is to remove but that was after I removed the retainer without removing the aluminum pan that is in the bottom. Did I do something wrong? I am wondering because every search that I have come across is telling me how I need to remove it...note: I am doing it on the patellette it came in.... I should buy a engine stand but have not at this time.

[ILikeMy240sx]

Yeah... you do need to remove the upper oil pan in order to remove the rear main seal retainer. There are two studs that are on the bottom of the retainer where it meets the upper oil pan. Upper oil pan holds on to those two studs and the retainer wont come out without removing the upper oil pan.

I have no idea how you managed to remove the rear main seal retainer w.o removing the upper oil pan... Any pictures?

[pearlS13]

Im almost positive you can change the rear main seal without removing that retainer. Just make sure you dont make any grooves in that retainer from prying with a screw driver or whatever your using to remove the main seal.

[L0$]

i unbolted all the bolts and the two studs holding the retainer well lets just say a pair of plyers did the trick..even though the two studs cant be used again..so i went a bought some new ones...they seem to fit back up but the old rear main seal was still a ***** to take out so I hammered it out...I am just wondering if my technique was a good one or I am I a complete idiot? note: I am a newbie

[ILikeMy240sx]

ooo so you just used a vise grip to get the studs out... I see.

Well normally, I wouldnt do that but I guess that could work if you have another set of studs that you can put it in there.

How are you planning to get the retainer back in and install studs tightly onto the retainer?

[L0$]

um basically use the liquid sealer, bolt on the retainer, screw the studs and nuts , and then install the seal. am I missing something?

[L0$]

another question is the wiring harness? i have abs on my s14 and need to know if i have to remove the abs or what? thanks alot

[whiplash willy]

So what is the best way to get/pry the seal out without damaging the area?

[sean58888]

you talking about this seal right?http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors...71332

[L0$]

yeah thats the correct seal...can anyone help me with the abs system?