"i took the tranny out last year,but I don't think the flywheel was touched. i replaced the rear seal at the time."

I'm not a 700 guy, but I'm having a little trouble understanding this. In other words, how could the engine's rear main seal be replaced without removing and re-installing the flywheel or flex plate? Or were you talking about the transmission's rear seal?

Anyhow, I've followed some threads on this board to learn the engine will start and run with the flywheel clocked 45 degrees off. Quite a computer there, that EZ-116K. You can check it through the starter hole - that's where the index should be at #1 TDC, or like I did, through the CPS sensor hole (little finger) by counting 13 openings as you carefully turn rotate the engine CCW from TDC. If you do go through the sensor bracket, take out the spark plugs. I don't want to hear you sheared off the end of your finger when compression released.

The slow deterioration is not explained by this, but it brings to mind my experience with out of box failures with crank sensors. Obviously you didn't take it for granted new=good if you're on your fourth, but I did learn the Bougicord Electricfil brand is not enough to earn my trust.

Before any of this, I'd take Chuck's experience seriously regarding the tone ring. It needs to be undamaged and, of course, firmly attached to the flex plate and crankshaft.




--
Art Benstein near Baltimore

Being young is beautiful, but being old is comfortable.