willysmjeeps.com

53a1, what about the new, improved versions of the preformed seals the dealers are selling these days? Seems like I saw them in one of the ads in Supply Line or Military Vehicles mag that one of the dealers redesigned them (can't recall which one). If anyone here has used one, can you report on your experience with them so far? I will be rebuilding my original/spare engine/tranny/tc after I get the 'a1 back on the road, so this would be good info to know in order to make an informed decision.

I could actually use a modern seal because I checked the crank dia that the seal rides on and it falls within what is listed in the tech bulletin. I'm just going with the rope that came with the gasket kit because I feel it will work fine. Probably would be easier to use a modern seal but I figure the rope worked well for many years so why bother.

"one of the dealers redesigned them (can't recall which one."


Midwest Military

Thats what I did when I resealed the engine I have installed now - just used the rope that came in the kit. Although I have only run it a total of about an hour and only driven around the yard, I haven't seen any leaks yet. I might add that I am not an expert rebuilder, didn't measure anything, and this was the first rope seal I've ever installed. And I had a stuck piston that was driven out with a block of wood and a 20 ton floor press (i did check the piston and put new rings on all of them). Anyway, she runs good from what I can tell so far with no leaks (after retorqued a few things).

Isn't John (owner - Midwest Military) on here? If so, John, can you comment on any feedback tove received from customers and/or testing?

Yes, I worked with the manufacturer to remake the rear main seal. Long story on the original maker and what happened.
The new ones have been excellent. I have had nothing but good feed back so far. I have about 20 pieces in the field now.
John