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Problems...We rebuilt stock Vega engine with cast iron sleeves, using the rope seal. Engine runs good but seal leaks. I have been told that a rubber seal from a Chevy six cylinder will work. Anyone done this? If so what year seal and any trimming needed? Also looking for a good oil pump. All help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance,. Tom

Tom,

Yes, the rubber seal from a 230/250 Chevy straight six will work, just trim the "wings" off the one half. As far as the main cap side seals, if you have the Vega seals, use them. If not, completely fill the cavities with a good RTV sealant, like Permatex Ultra Black. I usually just stick the end of the nozzle in the opening and squeeze the tube until the RTV forces itself past the nozzle, and trim the excess.

Chuck

Thanks Chuck . Will try this in the fall when we pull the engine. Hope to find an oil
Pump before then. Seems pressure is a bit low.

Tom,

There are several on eBay right now:

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_odkw=ve ... s&_sacat=0

But it may not be the pump, it could be loose bearings. The pressure relief spring is accessible from the outside, though. Remove the hex cap on the front to access. You could shim it with a washer to see if the pressure will increase to what you are looking for.


Chuck

Thanks Chuck. Will give it a look. for bearings we installed all new rod and main bearings when we rebuilt it. Tom

Chuck
Just checked eBay. Too pricey for me. I'll try to shim the spring! Thanks for the help. Tom

In case anyone is interested, the part number for a rubber rear main seal is Fel Pro number BS13241. This will work in a Vega engine to replace the rope seal.

If you put a rope seal back in, be sure to slightly stagger the ends and make sure the retainer mating surfaces are flat. No sealer on the mating line.