The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Oil leak on new rebuild 235 engine

I had a 1955 235 rebuilt back in 1998. It ended up sitting for a long time. I finally got the 1953 pickup put back together this year and now I have a oil drip coming out of the hole in the bottom of the flywheel dust cover. It seems worse after the trucks been driven. What steps should I take to diagnose and repair this problem. thanks

Dave,

About the only two places that will leak in that neck-o-the-woods is the rear main seal and a missing flywheel bolt.

The chances on the flywheel bolt is minimal while a rear main, especially after sitting for years, is high. I think the best route would be to put some miles on it and see if it magically stops. Other than that, you would have to replace it which can be done in situ!

Take a sniff of the oil leaking out and make sure it isn't gear lube finding its way through the transmission bearing retainer.

Stuart

Sounds like the rear seal. I would replace it.