Hi,

I have a 1985 Ranger 4WD 2.8L V-6 automatic transmission with 99,000 miles on it. The front seal on the transmission failed recently and when it was replaced, it failed again almost immediately. My mechanic also discovered that the flywheel was broken and replaced that when he replaced the front seal again--which immediately failed again. My mechanic thinks that the crankshaft has too much endplay and it is causing the seal to fail and also broke the flywheel but he is not completely sure--he just can't think of what else it could be. Before I buy a rebuilt engine, I thought I'd ask here if his diagnosis is correct. Anyone have any experience with this issue?

Thanks in advance.

 

Welcome to the forum

Crank end play is set by the Thrust Bearing, in the 2.8l its one of the crank main bearings, it keeps the crank from sliding forward or backwards as it spins
Seen here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/184563627236

The front and rear main seals ride on a fairly wide smooth surface so there would have to be a lot of end play to cause either to leak

A crank wobble would cause leaking seals and broken flywheel
I think the broken flywheel would be enough reason to have the engine block rebuilt or replaced

 

Thanks for the info, RonD. Much appreciated.