For a number of years (ever since day one with a newly rebuilt 302 roller cam
motor), I've lived with a rear main oil leak. Not bad enough to demand
fixing... but bothersome. I've finally decided to fix it.
It's an '86 "RHO" (an early Ford crate engine... remanufactured 302 HO). It
has the one piece rear main seal, so I'll have to pull the trans to get at
it.
However, one concern I have is with the oil pressure. When I got the engine,
I installed a Melling M-68HV high volume oil pump. The pressure has always
been on the "high" side (at least I think it is high). At idle or higher
RPM's, it stays at a more or less constant 60 to 65 lbs.
Is it possible that the leak is possibly a result of running more pressure
than I really need? The PCV and breather are fine, so I don't think it is a
crankcase pressure issue.
Guess what I need advice on is whether I should change the oil pump to a
standard volume street type to run at a somewhat lower pressure? If so... any
recommendations on the oil pump brand & model number?
Also: any suggestions regarding a specific type or brand of rear main seal?
Thanks in advance.
Bill Waite
Grand Rapids, MI
B382100437
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