502 assembley questions.

[Josh]

Starting the short block on my 540, and I was wondering what is the proper way to put the rear main seal in. I assume the side of the seal with the spring goes toward the block like other oil seals? Do I slip the seal over the crank then drop the crank in? Is there a need for RTV around the outside of the seal where it meets the block? Do you need to RTV under the main cap near the seal like a MarkIV block? Any help is appreciated!
Josh

[Pro Stock]

The lip or spring side of the seal should face toward the inside (crankcase) side of the block for normal use and the opposite direction (backward) if you are going to use a vacuum pump, if you run the seal backward make sure to use a Viton seal.

Dale

[Josh]

Thanks,
On another note; in the box of hardware I got back from the shop after they hot tanked the block was a couple small pipe thread plugs that had a very small hole right in the center. I asked the guy in the shop what the deal was with these and he said they were installed by the factory in the two ports for the oil rails along the cam that are right behind the cam sprocket. These were to squirt oil on the gear and purge the system of air. Han anybody heard of this and does anybody know if these are necessary?

[chevybuldr]

Those oilers are pretty important. The air can get trapped. Make sure you reinstall them. Also, isnt that seal a one piece seal? If so when you install it and have you main cap on make sure that its square. I measure with a caliper at 4 points and adjust as needed.

[Pro Stock]

Right on with the oilers, I didn't realize that they came from the factory that way, it's a old racer's trick and should be used.

Dale

[Josh]

Got 'em in, thanks.