What is the proper way to install the rope seal in the timing chain cover and the grove in the front of the oil pan. I purchased seal material with the thought the new material could simply be slid into the groove of the cover and pan but this does not seem to be the case. The seal is too thick to fit into the available space. Is the proper procedure to install the seal then trim it around its circumference to fit the metal piece on the front of the crankshaft. Maybe an exacto knife could be used to trim the seal after it is placed into its groove. Then the next question is is the seal simply trimmed to be flush with the grooves in pan and cover.
