Leaking Gearbox output shaft seal

[ean]

Triumph Vitesse Mk2 convertible. The seal between the prop shaft and the gearbox case/rear extension is leaking oil onto the exhaust, creating a good smoke screen.

Is it easy to replace this seal and, I think while at it, the bearing?

Does the prop shaft have to be disconnected and some how moved towards the rear to create space to work?

All hints will be greatly appreciated. Whether 'yes easy to do or what ever you do don't'

[NonMember]

It's certainly possible to replace the seal in-situ. I don't think we even had to undo the gearbox mount on the OD Spitfire my brother and I did many years ago. However, just replacing that seal didn't stop the leak (although a later full DIY rebuild of that OD unit did).

[Pete Lewis]

if the prop has a telescopic slide then its likely to move rewards enough to raise the box and get the nut off to then remove the coupling  

if the car has a strap drive orrible prop then you will need to drop the diff end and slide the prop back a bit 

if you are going to jack the box up a little (as this will help) its a good time to examine the  cotton  reel mounts for separation and renewal 

the oil seal will lever out but can take a  bit of faffing around to get it clear

if the coupling has a wear ring from the old seal dont tap the new one in fully  so it  runs on a clean new bit of the coupling diameter .

dont forget to check the loil level before you refit the tunnel  ....make an access hole for future oil checking.

Pete