Tailshaft seal

[joeceretti]

Just wondering if anyone knows of any modern cross reference numbers for the tail shaft seal on my 38 60S. I know I can order one from Olcar as well as a few others I've seen mentioned here. The problem is, I am in Canada and payment for such a small part is problematic. I would like to source one that fits locally. Short of some paint the engine can go back in the car right now, once I install the seal.

Also, is it possible to get the seal out without taking the extension housing off? I've read around here somewhere that the seal is difficult to remove. The only place the whole thing leaks now is at the tailshaft end seal. I don't want to take anything apart I don't have to for fear of having a problem somewhere else.

Thanks in advance! 

[harvey b]

Do you have the old one out?,you should be able to see some numbers on it or get the dimensions and be able to match it up with one at a good parts place.If it the rope type of seal that will be simpler?.On my 37 the tailend seal is good,no leaks but it does leak around the top where the shifter goes in,drives me crazy as it always has a small drip.In my Master parts book it says it has part number 141 5976 fits 37-40s the number might be good if you can find the right parts guy. Harvey

[las39]

You mean this one? I bought my from ebay and works perfectly
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1941-42-46-47-48-49-50-51-52-53-59-CADILLAC-OLDSMOBILE-Trans-Rear-Seal-NOS-/111080961056?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19dcf0f420&vxp=mtr

[joeceretti]

For future needs, here's the info I found...

1415976

20.0516 OIL SEAL IN MAIN SHAFT EXTENSION HOUSING

36-60, 37-50,60,65,70, 37-75 except special bus jobs,
37-85, 38-50,60,60S,65,
38-75 except special bus jobs, 38-90, 39-501 603,61,
39-75 except special bus jobs, 39-90,
40-50,52,603,62,72, 40-75 except special bus jobs,
40-90

SKF   15142
FIAT   654682
FIAT   70654682
FORD   965815142
GM   1196668
GM   1415976
GM   2467131
National 473228 <--- this is the one my local dealer has in stock and it's $5.80

I will update later today as to whether this is correct or not.

EDIT: The National 473228 is the correct seal.

[harvey b]

Joe,at 5.80 it will cost more to go get it then the parts will be.Good Luck 

[joeceretti]

Hahah I was thinking the same thing. Even if it's wrong I won't be upset about the money, more about the time.

[joeceretti]

I can confirm that the National 473228 is in fact the correct seal for the 38 60S, 39 60S and the LaSalle 38 50. I replaced the seals in all the transmissions this afternoon. I finally have a totally leak free engine and transmission for my 38 60S! Now to work on the differential.

The strange thing is that the old seal was not actually even a seal. It was the metal cup that would be on a seal but the cup was tack welded onto the yoke that connects to the drive shaft. It turned with the drive shaft. Very strange. I had to grind off the welds to get it off but at least it was easy to get out of the tailshaft. No wonder it leaked.

[joeceretti]

The new seal in place. You can just make out a bit of the weld I didn't grind off.