440 rear main seal

Is there a way to remove the old rope seal while the engine is in the car? I don't want to pull the engine if I don't have to, but I cannot get the old seal to move. :angry6:
I already have the steering linkages diconnected and the pan and windage tray are off. The seal retainer is also off. I hate to think I have done all this, and will have to pull the motor anyway.
My plan was to push/pull the old seal out and then hopefully slide the new one in without removing the crank. Will I have to take the crank lose to replace this seal?
Author: admin