The Ford Barn

Russell Reay · 03-09-2025, 07:25 PM

I am planning to install a Burtz flywheel and T5. Removed trans etc today, and was quite surprised to see no sign of oil leaks. I know the engine was rebuilt at least two owners ago, and just discovered that the clutch and PP are in excellent condition. PO and I have not driven it more than 1500 miles, and know nothing about owners prior to him. There has been a little leakage from the cotter pin, but not much. The photo is just as it appears when the flywheel was removed--no cleaning of any kind was done. The absence of any leakage suggests to me that the rear seal is functioning perfectly or something is clogged. Opinions requested.

nkaminar · 03-10-2025, 07:51 AM

The stock engine, if rebuilt properly and the bearings are set up correctly, will not leak out the rear of the engine. However, it may be that someone modified the engine by installing a rear lip seal. The only way to know would be to drop the pan. Or perhaps use a bore scope in the hole left after removing the oil filler tube.

Joe K · 03-10-2025, 09:02 AM

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I generally run with oil on the "bottom half of the stick" (i.e. below the mark about half way to the end.)

One has to understand that unlike modern engines, the oil pan on a Model A serves primarily as "reservoir" to fill the catch tray above it. As long as there is ANY oil in the bottom and it can be pumped up by the pump, you're good to go.

And with oil "lower" - there is less tendency to oil loss out the back.

Of course with less oil inventory on hand, the oil CAN get dirtier faster. Original recommended oil change is 500 miles which, combined with "modern" oils and a low level is probably about right. Lubricating oil technology has improved WAY beyond the "30W" stage.

Joe K

03-10-2025, 07:51 AM	#2
nkaminar Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Western North Carolina Posts: 5,863	Re: No leaks !! The stock engine, if rebuilt properly and the bearings are set up correctly, will not leak out the rear of the engine. However, it may be that someone modified the engine by installing a rear lip seal. The only way to know would be to drop the pan. Or perhaps use a bore scope in the hole left after removing the oil filler tube. __________________ A is for apple, green as the sky. Step on the gas, for tomorrow I die. Forget the brakes, they really don't work. The clutch always sticks, and starts with a jerk. My car grows red hair, and flies through the air. Driving's a blast, a blast from the past.

03-10-2025, 09:02 AM	#3
Joe K Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Cow Hampshire Posts: 4,610	Re: No leaks !! Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) I generally run with oil on the "bottom half of the stick" (i.e. below the mark about half way to the end.) One has to understand that unlike modern engines, the oil pan on a Model A serves primarily as "reservoir" to fill the catch tray above it. As long as there is ANY oil in the bottom and it can be pumped up by the pump, you're good to go. And with oil "lower" - there is less tendency to oil loss out the back. Of course with less oil inventory on hand, the oil CAN get dirtier faster. Original recommended oil change is 500 miles which, combined with "modern" oils and a low level is probably about right. Lubricating oil technology has improved WAY beyond the "30W" stage. Joe K __________________ Shudda kept the horse. Last edited by Joe K; 03-10-2025 at 09:07 AM.