Honda Repair: 1989 Honda accord 2nd part, rear main oil seal, 1989 honda accord

Question
Hi Rick,
I recently emailed you about my 1989 Honda accord.  Well, I went for a tune up and an oil change.   It was found that I am leaking oil from rear main seal.  The guy told me I could drive it just watch the oil ( 2 weeks) he quoted me about $225.  Then I called another location and when I told them the problem, they went ooooh that will run you about $225-$250.  What exactly is this.. I decided to get this fixed on Saturday(today is thursday ) especially since I don't know how bad this is.  Please let me know.  Also If I want my houses and belts checked how do I tell them that w/o being charged excessive amount of money ?  Thanks  

Answer
Angela, the rear main oil seal is a crankshaft oil seal on the rear of the engine where the transmission attaches. Is it leaking real bad? If you didn't notice any puddles or the oil level drop I wouldn't worry about it. A little seepage is not a real concern. In order for it to be replaced the transmission has to be removed. As far as checking the hoses and the belts I would have checked the belts and hoses at the tune-up as a courtesy. You may want to check with the repair shop as this may already have been done. If not it only takes a few minutes and you should not be charged for it especially if your paying them to replace that seal. I would say could have a quick peek at my belts and hoses and let me know their condition. Hope this helps, RICK