Being I have the damper off, I figure I should replace the front crankshaft seal. Is the seal the same for the 292 as for the 312? I have the 312 but I am having a hard time finding a seal listed for the 312. 
Does anyone have the brand/part number for a good seal? I have the Ford part number, but none of the listings I find show it for the 312.

The Damper Dudes called me today and my damper is done, packaged, and on the way back to me!

I found the exact Ford part number seal, new old stock still in the FoMoCo package, so I expect that it will fit as it should. I guess I jumped the gun on posting the question.

Make sure that the rubber in that NOS seal is still pliable and has not turned hard with age.

All 1954-1964 Ford Y-Block front timing cover seals are the same.  Be aware that the front timing cover seals are installed from the backside of the factory timing covers.  Said another way, the timing cover will need to be removed from the engine to replace that particular seal.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I would hesitate to use NOS rubber.  It can look good but it shrinks and can fall apart pretty quickly after it is put to use.  I've seen it happen a number of times.  I've been involved with vintage BMW motorcycle parts for 2 decades, have dealt with my share of NOS for those and I no longer try to sell NOS rubber (or paper, gaskets, etc.) unless there is no other option.



Lawrenceville, GA

Charlie, I sold my R1100S three years ago, after being knocked off an 8-foot ladder by a falling tree branch; my left collarbone and 4 ribs were broken. My 84-year-old stepfather has an R1150R (he previously owned an R100RT). Up until recently, he rode it to work regularly. Two years ago, he was pulled over for speeding (100 in a 65). The officer said that my stepfather was the oldest motorcyclist he had cited for speeding. The officer gave him a break and cited him for 78. We'll see if he continues working (by choice) and riding after heart valve replacement. 

By the way, I agree with not using NOS rubber.

I didn't realize that the timing cover had to come off. Is there any harm in not replacing that seal at this time? I have no sign of oil leakage from it. I can always find a couple more gaskets and replace it now if it is necessary.

Further on the subject of N.O.S rubber seals etc.. Assuming that a seal appears to be in reasonable shape, is it possible to rejuvinate it, using a product like "AGS Sil - Glide"  Lubricant, which is intended for brake parts & seals etc..?


Paul

You know the old expression "if it's not broke then don't fix it".  I would just leave it alone if it is not leaking.  Alan

Clearly, you should remove the timing cover to replace the seal. It only costs what, maybe $5?

Then - as long as you're in there - you can replace the worn & stretched timing gear set. Rollmaster makes a quality set, with adjustable keyways. So long as you're in there, might as well drop the oil pan and check those bearing clearances. And a new Oil Pump, drive rod, and N.O.S. distributor. Like as not those rocker arms and rocker shafts are getting worn, and fresh valve springs shimmed to the installed spec height will be a welcome addition to your tune. Let us know if you need more suggestions

Oh boy, I better be careful when asking for suggestions.....