How to replace the front main seal

CANNON1349

MECHANIC
2005 GMC ENVOY
4.2L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
195,500 MILES

How do you replace the front main seal behind the harmonic balancer on this model? The manual mentions evacuating the AC and removing the radiator. Is all of that really "necessary"?

Also it mentions having a specific removal tool for the harmonic balancer, why? Will the OTC versions work? Mine is the tool in the kit from Harbor Freight.

And, I am sure it is the front main seal, because I took a long trip in this vehicle, and the day after there were oil spots in the driveway. Looking at the engine, the front is a little wet with oil and the spots are directly under the front. Also, the oil got blown back all the way to the transmission, yet my oil level on the dipstick still shows up as good.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,690 POSTS

Hello,

You might not need to remove the condenser if you can get the tools in there to remove the balancer. Here is a video that shows how to use the puller and replace the seal even though its not the same car the procedure is the same:

https://youtu.be/NZIMNkLxCMA

if you are in question about the leak please follow this guide.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-is-leaking-oil

Please run down these guides and report back.

Cheers, Ken

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Monday, October 15th, 2018 AT 5:37 PM

CANNON1349

MECHANIC
670 POSTS

The Haynes manual mentions several genuine tools to use for this job. When I look up the tools they look kind of strange, maybe the tools have been changed over the years. This balancer has to be taken off with a jaw puller of sorts. Do you know of any kind of genuine or special puller to use?

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Tuesday, December 18th, 2018 AT 4:11 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,690 POSTS

Here is a video of the balancer being removed in a different car but the process is the same. It shows the puller which you can rent for free from the auto parts store.

https://youtu.be/NZIMNkLxCMA

Please let us know what happens.

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Tuesday, December 18th, 2018 AT 10:28 AM