Wally - Pretty sure the original style rear main seal was rope design. I recall reading many times that some of the currently available new rope seals seem to be too thick and cause the extra drag on the crankshaft.

Other should be along to provide more info, details and possible solutions soon. wink


~ Dan
1951 Chevy 3 window 3100
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"My Grandpa Carl's Truck and How it Became Mine"
1966 Chevelle (Wife's Hot Rod) | 2013 Chevy Silverado (Current daily driver)
US Army MSG Retired (1977-1998) | Com Fac Maint Lead Tech Retired (1998-2021)