I have a '71 buick skylark with the original engine. It originally had a rope type seal. I pulled out the shell that holds in the rope seal, only to find that none of the engine or timing cover gasket kits come with the press in piece, just the rope itself. I tried to reuse it, but it didn't hit in solid. I put it together anyway, to get my engine going, like I figured, it's starting to leak. I see they have newer rubber seals, but before I take my engine back apart, I was wondering if one of my pontiac front seals would work(I was stupid not to think of it while the cover was off) If I remember right the press in surface was 2.521 inches in diameter, will these interchange, it will save me the money and waiting to get it in the mail. Also, just to be sure, will the timing cover kits at the auto store that list for my car, but a rubber seal fit in my cover that originally had a rope seal. If anyone out there had a cover or seal they can measure out to check, that would be great. I'm new to this sight, so if it is posible to email me as well so I no of a reply, it would help. my email address is davsca941@aol.com. thanks Dave
I just overhauled my 70 350 and the Victor gasket kit that I got had the neoprene seal with it.I used only this seal out of the whole kit and used the Fel-Pro gasket set for the rest.Here are seals that will work it the housings.National 472319.Be aware that you must trim the inside of the housing where the seal goes into(no big task). There are 3-4 small bumps that held the retainer in the housing. Take a small file or something and remove these bumps so you can tap the new neoprene seal into the housing.I have used this several times with great results. Pat seen 1 too many numbers and re-edited it to the correct #
front / rear mains rope seal t/a performance sells the new replacement seals (not rope style) for the front & rear mains . that is where i purchased them from last year .
my felpro timing cover set (under $10 at pep boys) included the timing cover, water pump, fuel pump, and oil pump gaskets as well as the complete rope seal.
