Here's a general outline of the process. This is NOT a complete guide and may not be perfectly accurate for your specific year and engine. Consult a repair manual specific to your Ford Aspire's year and engine for precise instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening.
* Pry bar: Possibly needed for separating components.
* Hammer and punch (brass is preferred): For gently tapping components.
* Crank seal installer/remover tool: Highly recommended to avoid damaging the new seal.
* Engine hoist or jack stands: May be necessary depending on access.
* Drain pan: For engine oil.
* New front crankshaft seal: Get the correct part for your engine.
* Shop rags or absorbent material: For cleaning.
* Safety Glasses and Gloves: Always protect yourself.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics!):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. Support the vehicle securely with jack stands.
2. Drain Engine Oil: Completely drain the engine oil into a suitable drain pan.
3. Remove Components: This is the most labor-intensive part and will vary depending on your Aspire's engine. You'll likely need to remove:
* Serpentine Belt: Disconnect and remove the serpentine belt.
* Timing Belt (if applicable): If your engine has a timing belt, you'll likely need to remove it. This requires precise alignment and is a significant undertaking. Incorrect timing belt alignment can severely damage your engine.
* Pulley(s): Possibly the crankshaft pulley and other pulleys.
* Possibly other components: Depending on the engine design, you may need to remove other components to access the crank seal. Your repair manual will detail exactly what needs to be removed.
4. Remove the Old Seal: Use a seal puller or carefully pry the old seal out, avoiding damage to the crankshaft.
5. Clean the Crankshaft: Thoroughly clean the crankshaft sealing surface. Any debris can prevent a good seal.
6. Install the New Seal: Use a seal installer tool to carefully install the new seal, ensuring it's seated correctly. Don't hammer it in; you could damage the seal.
7. Reinstall Components: Carefully reinstall all removed components, paying close attention to alignment (especially if you removed the timing belt). Use your torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
8. Refill Engine Oil: Refill the engine with the correct type and amount of engine oil.
9. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and check for any leaks around the new seal.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: Again, a repair manual specific to your vehicle is absolutely necessary. Generic instructions are insufficient.
* Timing Belt: Removing and reinstalling the timing belt is a very delicate operation requiring precise procedures. A mistake can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque wrench and following the torque specifications is essential for preventing damage.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable with any of these steps, take your car to a qualified mechanic. The cost of repairing engine damage from an incorrectly installed seal far exceeds the cost of professional labor.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process will be much more complex and detailed. Please consult a repair manual specific to your Ford Aspire's year, make, and engine before attempting this repair. Remember, safety is paramount. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help.
