Expert: jack bahm - 9/8/2008

Question
ijust got a 1930 ford model A nice car it is leaking alot of oil dripping from the rear of the engine. i really think is is from the oil pan but not sure.  i took the oil pan down and have ordered a oil pan seal kit.  do you think it is that or do you think it is something else one thing i noticed there was a lot of metal shavings bigger piecs in bottom of pan.

you can reply back or call me at 908-832-7725

Giulio Dantonio
Califon, NJ

Answer
I don't like those big shavings in the pan.  They should not be there.  Sludge is OK, but not shavings.  The pistons are aluminum, the block is iron, and the brgs are babbit.  
The oil leak back there is not a big deal.  All A's leak back there.  We always say "If it ain't leakin, then something needs fillin".
Put the new gasket set in and be sure you don't cut the rear seal short.  It is the piece that is about 3/8 in. square in section.  You cut it to leangth and push in in place.  Put a little sealer at each end and make sure it stays in place as you bring the pan up into position.  It it still leaks a lot after you do this, then it may be something bigger that involves the rear main brg.  There is a tube that directs the oil back into the pan.  The rear main is really outside of the pan and has to be directed back into the pan.  Get the book, model A mechanic's handbook by Les andrews.  Get the red one, not the green one.  Snyders and Marc have it.  
Take a good look around while you have the pan down.  Make sure the rod caps are tight and look good.  Something caused those shavings.  Be careful of the sharp edges when you clean the pan.  It takes a lot of bandaids.  You may have chunks of babbit in there.  If so, you will have to pull the pistons and check the rods.
Good luck
jack