In this last engine rebuild I decided to try my hand at a modern neoprene seal for the front timing cover. I picked a sleeve that fit on the V-Belt shaft to provide a good seal surface. I then picked a seal to fit the sleeve. Seal alignment is the big issue so I made an alignment tool that mimics the sleeve diameter and fit snuggly on the crankshaft. To install the timing cover I left the seal mounting screws slightly loose then installed the cover while the alignment tool was in place. I then tightened the seal mounting screws. Because it will take some time for the engine oil to make it's way to the seal I also lubed up the sleeve and seal. When I installed the sleeve onto the pully shaft I slathered a good bit on JB Weld on the shaft and inside the sleeve.
