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Yes, that's what I used to put it in and it didn't go so well. I want to guarantee that it doesn't leak again so I'd like to use the proper tools this time around.
With the factory tool it's guaranteed to go in straight though...
I tapped it in until it hit the seat...but it didn't go in perfectly straight at first so I guess I bent it. I knew I should have just pulled it out and gotten another one while the engine was still out.
I was lazy and just used a rubber mallet and did little taps around the circle until it was all the way in. Checked it for leaks 1000 miles later and it was fine.
Lubricate the lip of the seal with some oil before installing, will ease the process. (Also pack the inside of the seal with grease to help keep the gaiter from moving out of position.)
There seems to be a lot of people who had theirs start leaking right after installation. Any tricks besides Curil T, oil on the ID, and a good way to press it in evenly? What about putting the new one in the freezer first?
Mine leaked using a home made tool too -- even though I installed it on the stand on uber-clean parts. Then I got a P234 tool, and replaced the seal on my back under the car, and had no leaks. When you see it in action, you'll know how much you always wanted it. I'm sure plenty of guys can get homemade tools to work, but the factory tool works so smoothly, it's a must-have tool in my mind. If it improves my odds of a leak-free seal, it's well worth the money. A number of places online carry it, including SirTools.
Thanks for the suggestions guys. I will try to get my hands on the proper tool as I just want to finally drive this thing. Using the right tool will also eliminate any installation error, so if it leaks again I know there is some other problem and it's not the way I'm driving it in.
I always read that article as he was using the factory tool but I guess he wasn't. He says flush twice too but what I think he meant was with the new seal type that tool he made has a lip and that goes flush.
I think you can still get the better seal too just not sure of the brand.