I think I have found the problem with my hard to turn engine. I removed bolts connecting the flexplate to the torque converter, the engine was still tight but while I was under the car I turned the crankshaft and I heard what souns like a moan from the rear of the engine I might be wrong but I think the rear seal is keeping the motor from turning . the seal has either dried and has no lubrication or it has swelled either way its is moaning dry rubber against steel the seal is acting like a brake . I do not have the time to drop the pan today but I hope I am right the sound is in time with the engine when it gets tight I would never have guessed . I have a new seal I will let everyone know how I make out . Thanks for all the thoughts and ideas . While I am here ,what should be the ohm reading on a 6 volt coil now I have no spark ......................

I just had another thought. While you are under the car see if the flywheel bolts are the correct ones. Some are longer and will jam against the back of the block when tightened. Chuck

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

Regarding the ignition problem.Is there spark at the points as they open and close?I guess its hard to diagnose until you get the engine turning freely.Figure on new plugs, points,condensor and maybe a coil as a starting point to get it running once its freed up.

  

Good possibility on the seal. I recall my Dad telling me to leave the rear main seal retainer loose until you got to the point of putting the pan on so the engine would turn easier while assembling it. You just had to remember to tighten the retainer.

Dan      Kingman Az.      86409

I had an old small block I forgot to trim the rope seal on. It took 2 batteries and a quick charger to turn it over but when it finally started it was easy to start from then on. Oh and the rear seal never did leak in 80 some thousand miles. You might want to leave it alone.

I was considering leaving the seal in place but I am afraid it might wear a grove in the crankshaft then it will never seal . I plan to drop the pan then see if I can get some lubrication on the seal .