oil leak revisited
 

My 30 roadster is running really well. The problem is it leaks oil very badly. I took it to a buddies house today and put it up on the rack. The oil is coming from the hole in the bottom of the flywheel housing. Is this the result of a bad rear main? I suspect we will have to pull the pan regardless of what the problem is. Can this be done with the motor still in the car while up on the lift? Any hints tips and advice is greatly appreciated as always.

Re: oil leak revisited
 

You can remove the rear main cap if you remove the pan and the flywheel inspection cover. To remove the slotted nuts on the rear main bolts, you will need particular wrenches. My Craftsman 3/8" breaker bar with a 3/4" 12 point socket just fits.
The cause of the leak is likely excessive clearance at the rear main. Search for info on this Forum, as there are lots of descriptions of how to adjust the main bearings.
Good Day!

Re: oil leak revisited
 

It is possible to drop the pan and work on the bottom end without a hoist, lift or other such devices. the space under a Model A is more than in a Royal Navy bunk.

Re: oil leak revisited
 

It is possible to drop the pan and work on the bottom end without a hoist, lift or other such devices.

Yes, the only time you will need extra support is if you remove the front motor mount.

Re: oil leak revisited
 

I can't tell if this is new or is an ongoing problem. One cause is as follows, there is a small drain pipe (about 3-4") that comes off the rear main cap. If this pipe/tube is missing (For whatever reason) the engine will hemorrhage oil at an alarming rate. A puddle about the size of a small dinner plate in five minutes at idle is about what it is. Look for this pipe when you pull the pan.
Terry

Re: oil leak revisited
 

Thanks for the replies...