There is an apocryphal (spelling not guaranteed)story (which means one I didn't make up) that owners of new Studebaker automobiles that did not leak oil could return them to the dealer, who would fix them (under the manufacturer's warranty) so that they would leak oil. 😛

Might this be similar situation just now coming to light ? 👿

:cheer:
F

Robert, that is very funny about the Studebaker warranty service. Unless someone has done it to my engine!

Finally heard from my machinist today, who'd made the trek down to eyeball the engine himself. While the resto guy was convinced for a time that the plugs were leaking, my machinist said they were dry and looked great. There's just a bit of oil coming from the transmission, it appears, and the machinist said he thinks it may have been overfilled somewhat and that leak could slow or stop once the excess oil has bled off.

The bigger leak was from the front main, on the side, where he said he replaced a rope-type seal. He said he was tempted at the time to cover the rope with silicone, since he's had good luck with such a procedure on other vehicles with this type of seal, but the Hudson specs didn't call for it so he followed those instructions exactly. In retrospect, he says, he wishes he would have used the silicone.

The good news, he said, is that at the time of my original post this leak dropped a spot of oil on the floor overnight that was about the diameter of an oil can. (I'm just barely old enough myself to immediately picture that.) Since then, as the vehicle has been driven more, the leak has slowed. After the last drive it leaked 2-3 drops.

His hypothesis now is that the rope is continuing to soak up oil, swell, and provide a better seal. His recommendation is that we just operate the vehicle, watch the leaks closely, and wipe the engine clean. We're all crossing our fingers.

If anybody has further advice, or misgivings about the advice I've been given, I'm all ears. I apologize for starting a big discussion on the plugs based on what appears to be erroneous information, but I do have to admit that I learned a lot and I'm extremely appreciative to all who have contributed. Thanks!