Need help on oil leak and placement of sterring wheel/69 Dodge Charger

[TFC]

Two issues regarding a complete restoration of a 69 Dodge Charger, 383.

First, the engine has been completely rebuilt but there continues to be a rear engine seal leak - this is the third time the seals have been replaced.  The engine (original) did not leak before the engine rebuild and had about 70,000 miles.  We replaced the crank shaft.  The engine builder is at a loss and I am frustrated with all of the resources that have gone into the engine and to have a leak that is not acceptable.  He suggests the problem is the quality of seals or perhaps something is out of round at the rear of the engine.  Any ideas at this point?

Second, the steering wheel placement is not at center.  I asked the restorer and he said that he can't change the position of the steering wheel without impacting the wheel alignment - I've been told by another knowledgeable person that this is not correct - something is wrong with the front end.  My friend also can't understand why there is an oil leak.  Any ideas at this point?

I am not a mechanic and have enough knowledge to be dangerous around a car (only kidding - I am not that bad), but I don't have the ability to rebuild engines front ends, etc.  The person who took the car apart and restored it is knowledgeable and has worked a wide range of older cars, but this is the first Dodge product he has worked.  I am not sure I agree with his analysis on these two issues - something seems not correct.  Looking forward to any response.  Tom C

[moparnation74]

Rear main seals are a pain and are not a simple put in situation.  Mancini carries a nice o ring seal kit.  Furthermore, Hughes performance has a great tech article on their website detailing on how to install the rear main seal properly.

Steering column centering.  First the steering box has to be zeroed out and centered.  Second, the column has to be installed properly the coupler mark must point north and the same on the shaft end where the steering wheel mounts.

[TFC]

Thanks for the info - will check it out.  TFC

[303 Mopar]

I agree the rear main seal is a PITA, and I have replaced many.  One suggest is to make absolutely without a doubt sure it is the rear main.  I have be foiled many times thinking it was the rear main but it was the back of a valve cover, a plug in the back of the engine, the intake manifold, or something else.  You can always go buy an ink kit and double check to find the source of your leak(s).