2013AvalancheLC9

I have a new gasket set including a cranshaft gasket for the timing cover. Do i need a special tool to install the new one? Or is a block of wood acceptable? I see guys using a tool to center the timing cover aswell to avoid the crankshaft seal leaking. So is the centering too a different tool than the installed tool? Or do they make one that does both? Watched a bunch of videos but nobody specified if its 2 seperate tools? 2013 lc9 5.3

wretched73

iTrader: (1)

I used a block of wood to put the seal in, then centered it by feel. It worked fine and I have no leaks

shakenfake

That is also how I did it.

Summitracing

OP,

We prefer using an alignment tool to properly align the timing cover to the crankshaft. The tools can be used as an install tool as well.

We have two alignment tool options in our own brand. One for without the seal in the cover and one for with the seal in the cover. Without the seal in the cover, you would need the SUM-900336. When the seal is installed in the cover you would use part number SUM-900337.

See the instructions here for the SUM-900336. When using the SUM-900337 see these instructions.

shakenfake

C'mon @Summitracing you can't tell me you've never done the ol' block of wood method

Probably best to rent an alignment tool at the parts store though. It's free.

madmann26

iTrader: (7)

I’ve replaced my crank seal a few times. Never used an alignment tool, never had a leak.

zz454Chevelle67

I used a black magic marker to write Alignment Tool on a block of wood, works every time never had any leaks.

Summitracing

We feel attacked and put into a corner...Kidding

This is why we enjoy being a part of this community. The friendly banter keeps it fun and entertaining!

In all seriousness though we're a business that has to uphold a reputation for the greater good. We can't come out and say grab you a piece of 2x4, favorite hammer, and have at it This doesn't mean we don't know it's common practice among enthusiasts. We just have to error on the side of "best" engine building practices.

Hope this helps folks understand where we're coming from

shakenfake

I know summitman I'm just giving you a hard time

RedXray

I installed the front cover with the RTV in the bottom corners and with the cover bolts barely snug so the cover can move. Installed the balancer with the correct install tool just enough to center the cover. Tighten down a few bolts to lock the cover down then used the balancer tool to remove the balancer again for easy access to the remaining cover bolts. It's easy on the engine stand but working over the fenders and core support... I do like everyone else and have had no leaks.