89 v6 (2vz-fe) rear main seal

[7polly7777]

Hi,

After replacing the distributor o-ring, rear rocker cover and re-sealing the FIPG of the sump I still have a nice oil leak running down the outside of the inspection plate of the flywheel. Am I correct in assuming that the likely candidate is the rear main seal?

To get to the rear main seal on the 2vz-fe engine will I need any special service tools? I'm guessing all the lower crossmembers/centre members have to be removed along with the driveshaft/dropping the auto out.

My main concern is the likely state of the crankshaft - I'm guessing it is likely to have been scored by the old hardened seal, which brings me to my other question: If the shaft is scored, is there enough clearance and length to insert something like a stainless steel easysleeve (so it seals effectively)?? I know from a mate that the later camry (3vz-fe?) is a bit of a pain as the crankshaft is slightly short for the sleeve and doesn't seal too well. I guess the other potential issue is crankshaft distortion (like on the old ford falcons) - is this usual on the 2vz-fe engine?

Thanks in advance for your tips - I am trying to decide whether or not to sort the seal myself or take the car to a local garage (and be hard-hit for the labour!)