I want to be sure not to scratch the crankshaft or cam, and am replacing all the oil seals while I do a timing belt/pump replacement. I bought an actual seal puller but it was way to big, and a curved pick would reach in and grab the seal from the inside, but would not pull it out.
Is there a secret method someone could share?

Thanks!
sohc

 

By the way, this is with the cam, crank, and balance shaft still installed with the engine still in the engine bay. Hopefully I am not missing something obvious. first time for everything right...

sohc

 

There's no secret, but being old... it may require a little push and pull, the new one should slide in like a charm, use a piece of plastic tube or something to fit it in place without scratching anything.

 

You can use a small self-tapping sheet metal screw screwed into the front face of the seal 'metal' for something to grab onto, or to use as a pry point. A very small 'hooked' scribe that you can get a good purchase on the metal will work also, but you have to be very careful not to scratch things.
tom