Classic/Antique Car Repair: rear main seal leak/replacement, olds cutlass supreme, olds cutlass

Question
I have an '86 Olds Cutlass Supreme I am restoring.  It has the 5.0L 307 V8 with severe oil leaks.  My buddy who is a mechaninc took a look at it and said unlike the easier repairs (vaulve cover gaskets) it has a rear main seal leak.
I was wondering if you could give me any information on the best way to replace this seal without removing engine and as few other parts (transmission, etc.) as possible.
Thank you

Answer
If the engine has a two piece rope seal then it can be changed by removing the oil pan. If the car has a one piece seal then the recommended procedure is to remove the transmission. Send me the eight and tenth digit of the VIN and I will check it out as that will tell which engine you have.