Deisel Rear Main Seal

[pma_foyl]

I''m already afraid to ask this question, but if anyone with similar experience could give some insight, I''d really appreciate it.

I have a Westerbeke 60 (old) with "suspicious oil leaks" which appear to be from the bottom of the engine about "mid-engine." I''m not sure yet (and praying that I''m wrong) but I suspect the rear main seal may be failing.

My questions ...
What else might be producing an oil leak near the bell housing?? Oil pan? Any way to determine (since I can''t see under the engine - no space).

It leaks about a tea spoon an hour (while running). Is this really excessive? Should I be concerned that the entire seal could give way at any moment? Would this instantly seize my engine?

What is the "real" risk with adding oil to an "uncertain" quantity currently in the engine? I''ve heard people say, too much oil with "blow the seals out." What''s too much oil? An extra pint? An extra quart? what??

What should it cost to have an engine pulled and the seal (and associated parts) replaced??

Any help would be great. Thanks.

[paulmcquillan]

You may want to contact the people at
http://www.marinedieseldirect.com/ which is a discussion group with archives.

It''s run by the diesel experts at Torresen Marine
http://www.torresen.com/

If you get any feedback on some of your detailed questions, I''d be interested in reading what they have to say.