Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?

I've got a 74 Ford Gran Torino fitted with it's original 351 Windsor engine that has covered a genuine 77000 miles.

Just recently I've noticed a very small oil leak from the back of the engine and I've been told that it's from the crankshaft oil seal, I was also told all early Windsor's leak here because they're fitted with a two piece seal and not to worry about it - is this common on these engines?Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?The 351 has a tendency to leak from the rear crank seal when the engine crankcase breathers are partially blocked. Check the rocker cover vents, flame traps and hoses are clear and there is no emulsified gunge in them.



I would think that with the limited mileage you have on the engine its probably well in need of a clean out if you haven't already done it.



Also make sure you don't overfill the oil - keep it just shy of the full mark on the dipstick, about 1/8" low when the engine is cold.Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?
Yes, it is fairly common for them, but just for piece of mind you should trace the leak back to it's origins in case it's something else. Like the guy above me said, if is the crank's seal, and is small and manageable just learn to live with it.Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?the crankshaft oil seal is above the oil level in the oil pan so it's not like the oil is going to pour out. If you have to add a little oil once and awhile so what. It's a lot better than tearing the engine apart and opening up a can of worms.Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?
Just because it's toward the rear of the engine, doesn't mean that's it's the main seal leaking. It may be the oil pan gasket. Some times it's leaking above the starter. Is it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?YES IT IS COMMON GIVEN THE MILES. HOWEVER CHANGING THE CRANCK SEAL MAY WORSEN THE PROBLEM. IF IT IS A SMALL LEAK LIVE WITH IT BUT SOME SEAL SWELL MAY SOLVE ITIs it common for a Ford 351 Windsor engine to leak some oil?
Old seals do tend to leak. But no mass produced engine is 'supposed' to leak.



"BRILLIANT"!!!!