Here's a general overview of what's involved. This is *not* a comprehensive guide and should not be used as the sole instruction for performing this repair:
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual specific to your year and model Suburban is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Socket Set and Wrenches: A complete set, including metric and standard, will be necessary.
* Transmission Jack: Crucial for supporting the transmission while you work.
* Engine Support Bar: Helps keep the engine stable.
* Seal Installer: A proper tool to avoid damaging the new seal.
* New Rear Main Seal: Get a high-quality replacement seal, the correct one for your specific engine.
* Sealant: Appropriate sealant for the application.
* Clean Rags and Shop Towels:
* Penetrating Oil: To help loosen bolts.
* Torque Wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Jack Stands: For safety!
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Drain Fluids: Drain the engine oil and transmission fluid.
3. Remove Components: This will vary depending on the year and specific engine configuration, but likely involves removing parts such as the transmission, driveshaft, and potentially the starter motor. Your repair manual is critical here.
4. Separate Transmission and Engine: Carefully separate the transmission from the engine using the transmission jack and engine support bar.
5. Remove the Old Seal: This can be tricky and may require special tools.
6. Clean the Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the engine block and crankshaft where the seal sits. Any debris will prevent a proper seal.
7. Install the New Seal: Use the seal installer to avoid damaging the new seal.
8. Reassemble: Carefully reassemble everything in the reverse order of disassembly, following your repair manual precisely. Pay close attention to torque specifications.
9. Refill Fluids: Refill the engine oil and transmission fluid to the correct levels.
10. Check for Leaks: After running the engine, carefully inspect for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Accessibility: Access to the rear main seal varies greatly depending on the year and model of your Suburban. Some years are significantly more difficult than others.
* Potential Damage: There's a significant risk of damaging other components during this repair.
* Special Tools: Some specialized tools might be required.
* Time Commitment: This is a time-consuming repair that could take a full day or even longer, especially for a novice.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge, tools, and a detailed repair manual is strongly discouraged. Professional help is highly recommended. The cost of a professional repair might be less than the cost of damaging engine components during a botched DIY repair.
