Front Crankcase oil leak? how to repair?

[nwsac]

I think my front crankcase seal is leaking engine oil. Oil drips whenever my truck is parked or backing up hill. If rear is up and front is low, it will leak even a slight declilne. In past 6 months I have had (rear) crank seal, valve cover gaskets, and oil pan gaskets replaced having no further leaks in rear engine. Now, only when the front is lower than the rear, I get a motor oil leak.

Is this the crankcase seal, and how do I repair myself? I wont go to my mechanic now in that I explained over and over it was leaking out the front and he adamantly repaired the rear. I have a 99 ranger 4x4 3.0L manual 5 speed XLT. Any help with diagnosis, repair or having a similar problem dealt with would be helpful. Thanks!

FYI - I see no coolant leaking, definitely engine oil.

 

[Rearanger]

Is this the crankcase seal, and how do I repair myself?

Certainly could be. Mine's an 03 but I suspect your 99 is the same. Need to remove the front crankshaft oil seal in the front cover. Remove the crankshaft/Harmonic balancer to get behind it and change the seal. You'll probably need an impact gun to remove the crank pulley bolt and some way to lock the engine when re-torquing back on. Rad probably needs to be removed for access. You also may need to adapt something to drive the new seal in, maybe a large socket or PVC pipe.

Lots of work getting in there so you might want to consider a new water pump if it's been a while.

 

[nwsac]

Thanks Rearanger!

I have 150K original miles and never had water pump issue. I'll take your advice. How would you suggest a way to lock the engine? It has been a long time since I have worked taking out the water pump. Last time was in early 80's replacing wp on a 74 Torino.. I am imagining a way to secure the bolt from turning the engine and am coming up with nothing. Any ideas? Thanks again, I love this board, I get very helpful info here.

 

[Rearanger]

Auto or manual? My FSM calls for puller and special installation tool for harmonic balancer remove/press install (Before bolt installation - 107 ft/lbs) . Parts retailer may loan them.