Practically Classics Forum

Hello all...
I’m going to change the timing chain and tensioner etc on a 1725 engine in my Alpine. The WSM makes reference to a special tool to centralize the timing cover when refitting to ensure the seal ring is concentric with the crank..... my question is.... is it necessary to use a special tool, won’t slipping the crankshaft bottom pulley on before tightening the fastening bolts have the same effect?

This seal is also prone to leaking I believe... are their any later mod's I can incorporate?

If anyone knows the nut size on the crankshaft pulley that would be helpful too!!

Thansk for your help!!

I stand to be corrected. I think you will find there is no seal. Where the shaft of the front pulley passes through the timing cover there is a ‘worm ‘affair on the shaft that is supposed to drive any oil back inside the case – as we Routes owners know at the expensive of our drives and garage floors this has limited success. I think standard practice is, when removed, to take the pulley and cover and wind masking tape, insulting tape or similar around the pulley where it passes through the cover to a suitable thickness that it is a very snug fit into the cover. Fit the cover loosely fit the pulley (only necessary to nip it on the bolt) tighten the cover bolts, remove the pulley, remove the tape, refit the pulley, stand back and watch it leak despite your best efforts.