VW Crankshaft Seal – Rear 038103171S – Elring 430190

With Flange. Crankshaft seals, also referred to as ‘main’ seals, are located at either end of the crankshaft and allow the crankshaft to spin freely and distribute power to the clutch and transmission, while keeping engine oil in and contaminants out of your engine’s crankcase. If you see oil leaking from the front crank pulley, oil dripping from the bottom of the clutch housing, or notice clutch slip caused by oil spraying on the clutch, check your crankshaft seals. When one of the crankshaft seals wears out, you must replace them to avoid oil loss, which can seriously damage you engine and make a big mess in your driveway. Main seals generally last over 200,000 miles or 20 years, but should be considered as a job for any restoration regardless of age, as access is generally limited in these positions. Keep in mind that occasionally special tools are required to install main seals evenly.