Chrysler Lower Unit Shift Rod Seal

[Rob85]

Hey all,

I'm having issues with my lower unit to my '73 Chrysler in regards to installing a new shift rod seal. Attached are pictures of my lower unit and the shift rod seal included in the seal kit for my model. My issue is that the seal is snug on the shift rod and moves up and down with it as it shifts. I have read places online where it says that to install these seals you put a socket over it and tap it with a hammer to press it into place. As you can see from the pictures uploaded, there is nowhere for it to go. There is definitely a recessed area around the shift rod that the seal is contoured to, but there is nowhere for the seal to move down any more. How do I get the seal to stay in place on the lower unit while the shift rod moves up and down? Am I missing a part somewhere? Any help appreciated!
Thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Chrysler Lower Unit Shift Rod Seal

Ahhhh! you need to pull out the old seal (which is still in place) before pressing in the new one! Unscrew the shift rod and pull it all the way out. then screw in a large lag screw and pull out the seal.

 

[Rob85]

Re: Chrysler Lower Unit Shift Rod Seal

I'll be honest Frank, I didn't even know that was the old seal. The guy I bought the motor from said it needed one so I assumed it didn't have one in there. I was expecting it to be a different color from the rest of the metal of the lower unit. I just thought that was part of it! Hahaha, this is why we post, so beginning boaters can learn!
Thanks again Frank!