A lot depends on whether you have access to a lift. If you don't, but are willing to work lying on your back underneath the car for prolonged periods, you can do pretty much everything with the engine in place. At least in theory. In practice if you have to do anything very major, it's more pleasant to just pull the engine and work standing up.tdskip said:what oil leak repairs are an engine out job
It is possible that your leak is coming from the "cigarette" seals and not the rear main seal. Or that the rear main popped out due to crankcase pressure (not much holds them in).I hear you...my S3 had its clutch replaced by the previous owner with express purpose of replacing the rear main seal. Nice fresh clutch, but leaks like a sieve! When I get ambitious, I will pull the tranny and see about a new seal AGAIN!