Ok, I'm in the middle of the timing belt/valve lash adjustment/front seal replacement/???? job and have a question.

I've read through the faq, several times, and searched through the archives to try to come up with the answer myself, but I just dont' feel too confident in this. The problem is with the installation of the front seals.

And the question is: Is it better to remove the bearing cover plate and put the seals in that way, then replace the plate, or just do it by pressing in the new seals with the plate still in (and thus not disturbing the plate)? Both options seem to have their pros/cons, but I just can't come to a consensus by myself on this topic. I really, really don't want to have to re-do those front seals. It seems that there are a lot of pitfalls regarding the seals job.

I am about to order new seals from the local dealer. I was planning to ask nicely if they would let me use their seal installation tools. I know, it's unlikely, but hey why not try? Yes, the front crankshaft seal (at least) is leaking. Car has 205000 km's on it, B230F NA, automatic.

Finally, is there any more tidbits of knowledge that anyone would be willing to share with me, regarding this (fairly large) job that I'm in the midst of?