Rear main and pan gasket

[hogdaddy77]

I am looking at a 89 GT (over the net) and the seller reports a leak in the rear main and pan gasket. Not being supper familiar with cars (yet)...how expensive and difficult is this to fix? I have access to a lift and a pretty much stocked garrage. What causes these leaks?
Also....what else should I be aware of before getting an 89 GT..any common problems?
Thanks

 

[ss93cobra]

You'd be miles ahead if you pull the engine to make things much easier. The parts (for a good pan gasket and rear main) will cost you less than $75.

 

[srothfuss]

Pulling the motor or lifting the motor will be required for the oil pan gasket change.

Also, here is my tips thread to explain common problems. http://forums.stangnet.com/showthread.php?t=573378

 

[WilwoodFiveO]

I just did the excact same thing your are talking about. I had never pulled a motor, but let me tell you the job was pretty easy. While it was out I did the rear main, oil pan gasket but also through on some longtubes, new motor mounts and a mini starter. So look into any of those things while the motor is out. Good Luck if you end up buying the car.

 

[hogdaddy77]

How long did it take you to pull the engine?
Will the car run, without damaging, with the leaks?

 

[5spd GT]

The car will run fine, just check your oil level. Premature clutch failure can occur from a rear main seal leak. Somehow it finds it's way to the clutch and will cause it to slip and glaze if not careful. The clutch assembly needs to be dry though that leak will fight that thought. I'm about to pull my engine to do some tinkering (including oil pan gasket and rear main as well).