Isuzu Repair: What type of rear main seal, 2001 isuzu rodeo, isuzu rodeo

Question
Sir,

I have a 2001 Isuzu Rodeo 4cyl and manual 5 speed transmission.  My father turned this vehicle over to me after he had a stroke because he can no longer drive the manual.  The rear main seal is leaking and I am curious as to the difficulty on this particular model for the replacement.  

Is this a one piece model or two piece model?  Can it be replaced by maybe just dropping the pan and rear main cap?  I am mechanically inclined, just not sure what to expect on this vehicle.

Respectfully,
Russell

Answer
It is a two piece seal. But Rodeo engines are a mixture between G.M. and Isuzu. The bore of these engines is an offset bore. Meaning everything on these engines is precision. I would recommend taking to a highly qualified mechanic(no offense) I have seen nightmares with these motors. If you do attempt to drop the pan and install a new seal. I would take a day off and also do it in an enclosed well lit area(very very very clean area). Even a piece of sand will ruin these bearings. The transmission may need to be pulled to do it correctly.(the service manual even calls for this). The book though highly recommends the removal of the crankshaft to avoid scratching or nicking the bearings/and or crankshaft.