Thanks to all who contributed .
Tim,
FLORIDA FORD FAN

We found an original Ford retainer cap and are using a Chrysler seal.
Thanks,
Tim,FFF (Florida Ford Fan)

Thanks for the reply.
See that you were taught by the same Priests that taught me to use the Nota Bene ,
Latin for "Note Well" when an important matter is evident.

I only use the Ford retainer, the Chrysler seal in my Bird I installed in 1995, still good.

They were actually an “orange” seal, and very easy to spot. They were a softer silicone I think, and often failed in 500 miles. I had one in my 312, and it didn’t make it that far. I replaced it with the current Best black seal, which I think is neoprene. So far so good, but I haven’t gone that far.

We followed all Ted’s instructions carefully, double checked everything, so I hope it’s solved. The other culprits were eliminated as possible leaks, so I know it was that orange seal.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

,Apparently the  "early" Best seal, which I believe is the Red seal (I may be corrected on that information ?) does not work well, however their later Black seal works well. However, the installation is tricky & needs to be followed properly or a leak will result. See Ted Eatons instructions (link to Eaton Balancing from here).  Another place that can appear to be a seal leak is the rear camshaft plug, which will leak if not sealed properly when installed & it needs to be installed with some clearance to the Cam. See also info on that from Eaton..  
N.B.- edit; see below, I'm corrected by Miker, the bad seal is an "orange color" not Red. - Thanks 
 
 


Paul

Are using a billet cap on the 312's ?
We have a billet aluminum cap and tried BESTgasket's seal but it failed.
Tim in Florida

I use the Chrysler seal on all 312's and the stock retainer (over 20 years) with no problems, I think most leaks are from the pan where it covers the oil seal retainer, I always use studs in the retainer and put sealer on top of the retainer bolt heads.

Will read the topics again, they are good info.
Thanks again for your input.
Tim in Florida

Good. I would still print off Ted's Article for Reference because He has a Couple of Tips to improve the chances of success even using Best Seals. I used it when I replaced the Seal in my 292 that leaked from the start after I rebuilt it. Seems to have solved my problem.