This post is based on the assumption that where oil seal retainer meets the engine block contributes to leakage at the points of contact, between the block and the retainer this might not get a proper seal
. Would it help to cut the rope seal that goes in the block short and the rope seal that goes in the retainer long so the seam of the rope seal would higher than the contact points of the block and the retainer.  
just a thought while I was assembling the engine.  A person could put one part of contacts points on the seal staggered which might help slow down the leak. 
Let me know what you think.  Larry

Larry

Did you try looking for the new style Neoprene seal? I think maybe Best Gasket has them. Someone on here should chime in with where to get one. Much better than the old rope seal.

Y's guys rule!
Looking for McCullouch VS57 brackets and parts. Also looking for 28 Chrysler series 72 parts. And early Hemi parts.

MoonShadow, 292 w/McCulloch, 28 Chrysler Roadster, 354 Hemi)
Manchester, New Hampshire

The Best Gaskets black neoprene is the one. Not the orange, but there shouldn’t be any of those around. Don’t use it, ask me why.

Here’s Ted’s link to his article.

https://www.eatonbalancing.com/2008/09/10/neoprene-rear-seal-installation-for-the-y-and-others/

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

I see what you are trying to do and that is have the parting line of the seal halves not meet at the parting line of the seal retainer where it contacts the block.  The problem with doing as you suggest is being able to get the long side seal protrusions into the short side seal recess and still being an adequate seal.  Fraying of the seal ends into the area where the retainer rests against the block would be another issue with this.

As a general rule with rope seals, both seal halves are typically installed so that they both protrude above the parting line a small amount so that some extra pressure is put on the seal ends where they contact each other.  Back when it was common for rope seals to be used, I would use a popsicle stick as a measurement guide for the amount of extension or protrusion of the rope seal past the parting line and then use a razor blade laid across the top of the stick to cut the rope seal square across its end.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)