fordfan1991

Hi i was wondering if anybody had info on how to check the rear main seal for leaks. i have a oil leak that is dripping on the y pipe it seems to be coming from the rear of the oil pan but could be from the rear main. and how much work goes into a pan gasket or rear main seal replacement because i have access to a lift at my high school. It is a 1994 f150xlt with a 5.0. the body has 223000 miles but the engine has around 80K.
thanks for your time.

Just call me Sean

iTrader: (1)

I suppose you could check the bellhousing for oil and if there is a lot in there it would be the main. The bellhousing shield or plate (depending on stick or automatic) would shield the oil from going in there if it was the pan. Also check for oil higher up, like the valve cover. When they leak it sends a lot of oil down. My '87 would leak a quart a week from the valve cover, then I changed it and not a drop. Clean the engine with degreaser and watch where the oil comes from, it would be easier if you ran it but didn't drive it so the oil doesn't blow around.

The oil pan gasket can be changed with the engine in the truck, but you will have to unbolt the engine mounts and raise the engine as high as possible for oil pan removal clearance. The rear main can be changed by removing the transmission. It is a one piece seal.