Oil Leak

[treks]

It might not even be the main seal- it's just possible that the tappet cover gaskets are leaking and the oil is running down the back of the engine. Sometimes the oil can seep past the mating surface between the engine and gearbox, and if it that happens the oil drips out the bottom of the bell housing which makes it look the main bearing seal is leaking.  

Which is bette to remove- the engine or the gearbox depends on whether or not the vehicle is a 4 by 4. Some gearboxes are absolute bitches to remove, so it really depends on the vehicle. Speaking for myself, I have often removed the engine instead of the gearbox because it is sometimes easier this way- but only if I could do it without disconnecting A/C lines. 

 

Edited February 14, 2020 by treks