Thread: GM front crankshaft seal install

I had a leak at the front crank seal and attempted to replace it. Fairly easy to pull the balancer and get access. Old seal came out with a seal puller. Upon installation I tried using PVC pipe with a diameter that looked like it would fit as close as possible to the metal ring of the seal. I did not grease the outside perimeter of the seal and I'm now thinking I should have. Low and behold I ruined the seal upon install.

I didn't have a large enough socket to match up nicely to the seal, hence the PVC pipe. Is there a better size large socket I should use or other trick to install the seal, I assume greasing the outside perimeter but wanted to see what other DIY tricks I might be missing to make sure I don't damage another seal, thanks.

Yes I know about the groove and I actually replaced the balancer, found a great price online for one. I will try again and be more careful. The issue is with the GM seal which some recommend over aftermarket doesn't have the outer flange in the picture you inserted. Would it not be advised to apply a very thin layer of grease to the outside perimeter to coax the seal in. Any drawbacks to doing this, I can't imagine it would dislodge slip out at all.