Replacing KE4 crank seals

[reiter]

I have a KE4 that I am working on. I was wondering if anyone had any tips on changing the crank seals? I would also like to know what people recommend for a sealant for new gaskets

Thanks

[green-thumbs]

Upper crankshaft seal 7415
Lower crankshaft seal was part of lower cover. There are several work arounds
or you can leave it be.
louis

[green-thumbs]

Gaskets depend upon whether you have more time and patience or more money.
The $5 Made in China gasket punches are a very good value for the money. Industrial
grade gasket punches are EXPENSIVE unless you can find them at a garage sale.

That said, there are 3 gaskets I would suggest you purchase, the gasket between
the powerhead and the drive shaft/ exhaust housing, part # 27-24204
manifold to cylinder gasket part# 27-21696
manifold to driveshaft housing 27-23049
They are not hard to make BUT obtaining suitable heat resistant material is difficult
and may contain asbestos (as do old gaskets on engine)

The gasket inside manifold is difficult to make (later 2 piece manifold) and requires
a THICK heat resistant material

2 other gaskets required to seal cooling water circuit
27-21668 between water jackets
27 – 24203 water tube gasket between driveshat housing and powerhead
some use an “O” ring instead.

So whats to make?
Crankcase to cylinder jackets
cylinder to water jacket
spark plug flange to water jacket
lower cover gasket
water pump to gear case

The lower drive shaft seal is made from a piece of leather or raw hidel
on the KD and earlier models and can also be made with gasket punches plus a
small bit of imagination.

Tools required set of punches, scissors, cutting block, ruler, pencil, pen., drawing compass comes in useful at times.
Louis

[green-thumbs]

Permatex High Tack Gasket Sealant with brush in cap

I have found that placing gasket on board and “painting” each side in turn give a tacky gasket without excess sealant…wear disposable H/F rubber gloves
as it is about impossible to scrub off hands and fingers.
Louis

[johng]

Hi Louis, Here is a solution for the Early K Series up to MK-7 motors (6 -7 1/2 HP) concerning the Lower Crank Seal. I have used these Seals many times. The originals are rare. Find a local Auto Trans Repair Shop in your area that will take the time with you. You need the Shift Shaft Seal from a “Ford C-6 Automatic Transmission.” 1966′ -1976′ It is the correct fit. It is a chore to remove the crank cover metal seal cap, be careful with that. Just pull out the original seal and drive in the Ford C-6 seal. (Lip of seal pointed Down). I think same seal on the Early K series Single Cylinder motors.

[green-thumbs]

Thank You for the helpful suggestion. I just got back from local NAPA with some seals (7415 upper crankcase seal and 4923 seals for 3 slit vane type water pump used on \a number of pre KE4 singles and twins. My experience with seals is it is best to order by
part number.
A brief scan of internet reveals a wide price range as well as some variety in what is
pictured as the seal. Sounds like I am in for another trip to NAPA as will as some more
research on the net.
Thank again for a useful hint.
Louis

[jeff-register]

Louis,
You are the man!!
God Bless,
Jeff

[Author]

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