Rear Main Seal Leaking
 

I have a 2000 ford expy 4x4 5.4l, engine has been running real well at 130k miles. I noticed a leak the other day and it looks like the rear main seal. I have also noticed about a 50 mile drop per tank in mileage. How difficult is this to replace the seal or what would a dealer charge to do so? Also could this be a precursor to something worse like the engine going out?

Thanks for the help.
Robert

its a peice of cake once you get the tranny out.

I am mechanically challenged at times with major projects. So I am very leary of taking this on as it is my daily driver.

you can have it done for about $500 fo the labor transmission oil and filter (might as well...) and the seal another $150. there is a possibility this does mean the rear main bearing is worn but most likely its just the seal especially at only 130k. I would have it done and take the risk.

If it is the rear main bearing what is that and how is that replaced?

You would have to remove the engine to get the pan off then remove the bearing caps. Might as well have the thing rebuilt or get a rebuilt or a good used one. I think you will most likely be ok with just the seal repair, 130k isnt much for these engines.The bearing probably is ok,

Just where is the leak at? If it is above the starter only on that side, you are probably looking at the head gasket leaking, not a rear main. I haven't replaced a rear main in a 5.4 ever. Although it is a possibility. Just really take a look at the back of the pass cylinder head. The oil pressure feed to the head is located back there and in 99, Ford changed the gasket and it had a problem, so they switched back. I know it is a 2000, but I bet the engine was made in 99. The rear main bearing is internal to the engine and if it goes bad, you will have excessive lateral movement on the crankshaft.

I have checked the valve covers and those are not leaking. It is coming from the underside near the tranny pan. Thats why I thought it was the rear main seal. My neighbor is a mechanic and he confirmed the leak. Ford wants $1007 to do, OMFG!! They should not be hurting for money with those prices.

you need to look at the rear of the pass side head above the starter

should I be able to feel it or do I need a mirror to look at it?

You can see it through the wheelwell, or with a flashlight under the truck. Follow the trans dipstick up and just above the starter is where the gaskets leak. If that's what it is, it would be a $1200 or more repair at a dealer. It calls for about 10 or so hours to replace. Along with a lot of gaskets and head bolts.

Thanks I will look at that once I get home and the engine cools a bit. You guys are great and plethera of knowledge.