Rex'48 Rear Seal Leaking

[Glen]

Question remains, why did it fail after so few hours? Possible Causes?

One thing that could have happened is the seal lip could have turned backwards, or partially backwards, as you put the retainer in position.
You have to watch closely when putting a seal in position that the rubber lip doesn't turn backwards. The seal probably won't seal if that happens.
tst I think has said that sometimes the spring in the seal, around the rubber, comes out of position. Then there isn't as much pressure holding the rubber lip against the metal the rubber is running on.
Check and see if the spring is in position after removing the retainer.
Put oil on the seal lip and the metal surface the seal runs on before putting the retainer on.

[Eugene]

Purchased a borescope/endoscope for $29 and change. This one has it's own "TV" screen and rechargeable battery.

Used it yesterday to check the clutch on my standard Cub. Have a click in the clutch area, the clutch looked good. Split coming.

The price of electronics has really come down. This borescope has a tv screen about the size of your hand, led bulbs, battery, ability to rotate the picture, brighten or dim picture, adjust the focus. Made in China. Didn't cost very much to manufacture considering the shipping/postage costs, plus a bit of profit.

[PVF1799]

Thanks everyone - Once I can walk again, and the weather improves I'll be back at it.

This remains the very best most helpful group of people I've ever met.

[PVF1799]

Ken, can you tell where exactly the oil is leaking from?

I'm going to have to scope and see if I can tell - Right now if comes down behind the engine block and the crescent shaped cover plate. Lot of great suggestions here. Regrettably, I'm totally laid up for another couple of months following surgery on my right foot. Much appreciate, your and everyone's help.