[PC/SR]

Another leaking rear main problem. Leaking rear mains are a regular topic here and it is kind of disheartening. People pay good money for rebuilds and are entitled to better results.

Kohnke quote: "If you can't run a Model A engine with the oil on the full mark, you have got something wrong!"

That's it in a nutshell. When some rebuilder trys to sell you a "modern" seal, or some other gimmick, go elsewhere. A properly restored rear main will not leak, no more than the proverbial few spots "to mark it territory" and that bit of leakage lubricates the rear thrust face, and the wishbone ball as well.

James quote (I don't know how to capture his comments in a box) "I do know of more than one builder that does not check the clearance of the bearings when fresh. No machinist is so good that he does not ever need to check his work."

I became convinced a long time ago that the only way to be sure it was right was to learn about how to do the assembly myself (I am not a machinist) and measure everything. This is not a knock on the pros here. If you do not do it yourself, you want the guy who will do the assembly measurements. It may cost you extra, but their time, knowledge and expertise is worth it. Someone (Tbird?) a few days ago who said that fixing the mistakes of the rebuilders of "moderns" was his stock in trade. That's a lesson. I am sometimes amused by folks who say their rebuilder was great, but, Oh Yeh, I have a leak.
We should all become "informed consumers", learn what is needed and ask questions, and pass along the knowledge to others. There is no reason for a leaking rear main.
Edit added: I hope too that Shelby's experience might be a lesson to learn. If the engine runs when you buy it, run it and see if it leaks before you write the check.