August 12, 2026
Oil seals play a crucial role in preventing oil leaks and helping to ensure reliable engine operation. A successful engine rebuild starts with the right oil seal, but proper removal and installation are just as important.
In this article, we highlight the nine most commonly used Elring oil seals. We also explain why correct installation is essential, which common mistakes to avoid, and how to remove an oil seal safely using Elring's new Oil Seal Hook.
During an engine overhaul, some oil seals are replaced more frequently than others. Within the Wilmink Engine Parts range, the Elring oil shaft seal rings listed below are among the best-selling products. These are primarily crankshaft oil seals used in a wide variety of passenger car and commercial vehicle engines.
 |  |  | |
| 742.960 Used in miscellaneous models from Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Infiniti, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM. | 877.130 | 155.560 | |
 |  |  | |
| 742.950 | 004.450 | 325.155 | |
 |  |  | |
| 026.812 | 686.870 | 707.450 |
These oil seals are among the most commonly replaced components during an engine overhaul and are used across a wide range of OE applications. Because they are replaced so frequently, choosing a high-quality oil seal is only part of the job. Correct removal and installation are equally important.
See also the complete range of oil seals from Wilmink Engine Parts.
An oil seal provides a reliable seal between a rotating shaft and its housing. It prevents engine oil from leaking while helping to maintain reliable engine performance.
Depending on the application, different types of oil seals are used, including conventional spring-loaded oil seals and PTFE oil seals. Regardless of the type, correct installation is essential to achieve an effective seal and maximize service life.
When carrying out an engine overhaul, the quality of the replacement parts is just as important as the quality of the workmanship. For this reason, professional engine rebuilders generally choose components that meet or are based on OE specifications, ensuring the overhaul is completed to the required quality standards.
Even when a high-quality oil seal is used, mistakes during removal or installation can affect its performance. Common issues include:
By following the recommended installation procedures and working carefully, you can significantly reduce the risk of oil leaks, premature seal failure and unnecessary rework.
For a complete explanation of the installation process, read our blog on oil seal installation, including a detailed step-by-step guide.
View the installation step-by-step guide
A successful engine overhaul doesn't start with installing the new oil seal, but with carefully removing the old one.
In practice, screwdrivers and other general-purpose hand tools are still often used for this job. However, using unsuitable tools increases the risk of damaging the shaft or housing, which can compromise the sealing performance of the new oil seal.
The new Elring Oil Seal Hook (B56.210 or WG2680966), provides a professional solution. This two-piece set has been specially developed for the safe and efficient removal of oil seals and is suitable for virtually all standard oil seal sizes.
The tool can be used on engines, gearboxes and axles, and also provides excellent access in hard-to-reach areas. It allows oil seals to be removed in a controlled manner without causing unnecessary damage to surrounding components.
One of its key advantages is that it significantly reduces the risk of damage to shafts and housings by eliminating the need for unsuitable removal tools. The ergonomic non-slip handles provide a secure grip for precise, controlled operation. Unlike many lower-cost alternatives, the Elring Oil Seal Hook has been developed and tested by Elring and is based on the OE special tool T20143, ensuring it meets the same functional requirements.
Elring B56.210 - Oil Seal Hook
Selecting the right oil seal and following the correct installation procedure are essential for a reliable engine overhaul. Even the highest-quality components will only deliver the expected performance when they are removed and installed correctly.
If you need help selecting the right oil seal for your application, our specialists are happy to assist. You can contact us every business day via sales@wilminkgroup.com.
By avoiding common installation mistakes and using the correct tools, you can reduce the risk of damage, oil leaks and unnecessary rework. The new Elring Oil Seal Hook is a valuable addition to any professional workshop that regularly replaces oil seals. In addition to the Oil Seal Hook, you'll also find a wide range of professional engine overhaul tools in our online shop.
