1999 Toyota Camry How to replace main bearing seal?

MROZNER

MEMBER
1999 TOYOTA CAMRY
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
126,000 MILES

My 1999 Toyota Camry with 4cyl/4spd has developed an oil leak. I thought it was the oil pan, but after repair it still leaks and oil fairly heavily is in this area so it is likely the rear main seal. I have two questions: 1) The Chilton's manual for 1997-2001 Camry's has you disassemble the entire front half of the car to replace this seal--basically remove the engine, transaxle, subframe, radiator, etcetera. What are the minimum steps to replace this seal (hopefully Chilton's isn't right)? 2) While I'm doing whatever the minimum is, what other things should I replace on a 126,000 mile car? Your advice is greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

On these wide body Camry's you do have to drop the engine, trans-axle in the sub frame, there is no other way, replace the drive shaft seals in the diff case, on the autos the diff has separate oil so don't forget to top that up as you will loose the oil with the drive shafts out, when fitting the new seal, lube the new seal surface with trans oil so it will not have a dry start when you finish the job.

Mark (mhpautos)