Rear main seal

[SteveD]

There seems to be three-four options available for the rms.

Local parts seller here in Oz has the oem black BMW seal for $44 and a black pattern version for $32..."TEFLON DESIGN, **Supplied with plastic seal protector /lip form"

Motobins has a black "latest BMW version" for around $28 and a brown one with "Improved sealing with 2 lips, traditional type with garter spring"...same price.

The oil pump o-ring is pretty much the same price @ $4.

Considering local verses international post will probably even out the cost b/w the two sources, what's the consensus amongst y'all of which rms to buy?

Also, is it worth buying a tool that helps with installation? They're $80 or so.

[SteveD]

We have an offer to borrow the installation tool.

Are the 81-84 oil pump screws still philips head? Do they need replacing if removed? Can they be replaced with an allen head bolt?

[ME 109]

10mm hex head, Steve.
Allen head will be unsuitable I think, there's not enough clearance for a big bolt head.

[richard t]

We have an offer to borrow the installation tool.
Larry fix-it use to use a piece of 3 in pvc pipe



Are the 81-84 oil pump screws still philips head? Do they need replacing if removed? Can they be replaced with an allen head bolt?

[Duane Ausherman]

The RMS installation tool is certainly nice to have, especially in a shop where time is paid by the customer. However, I have installed quite a few of them without any tool. Gently and careful use of a light hammer is enough. Getting it started in is the challenge.

[SteveD]

Getting it started in is the challenge.

Is leaving it in the freezer for a while worthwhile?

[Major Softie]

Getting it started in is the challenge.

Is leaving it in the freezer for a while worthwhile?

I would guess that it would greatly increase the risk of damaging the lip of the seal.

[Rob]

They used to boil them in oil!

[Duane Ausherman]

I would prefer it to be warm, or hot, certainly not cold.

[SteveD]

We've ordered the newer teflon rms. Install dry or soaked?

3. The seal must be installed dry, as it is a teflon impregnated paper sealing surface and has to be pre-formed-hence the special tool.

Retort: I don't know which seal you're talking about - BUT - the newest seal (one I got about 2 months ago) is BLACK, and must be installed WET. The instructions are VERY SPECIFIC about soaking it in engine oil for an extended period of time in order to soften it up before installing it. This was supposed to be the hottest "trick" seal from BMW. Mine was for an R65 - but I believe the exact same seal is used on all the later boxer's (/5 on).