Triumph Repair: Oil Leak at Fuel Pump, crankcase pressure, crows foot

Question
Hi Howard,

This is on a '66 TR4A.  Engine was rebuilt about 7K miles ago.  I have been unsuccessful trying to chase down oil leaks on this engine for just over a year.  Before that, I never had a problem.  Generally, the engine is very clean so I can inspect it well for evidence of a leak.  Today following a 45 minute drive I had a 6"+ oil puddle under the car (more than usual).  Upon inspection, immediately under the fuel pump it was quite wet with oil. No evidence of oil above the fuel pump.

Thus, I am planning to replace the fuel pump gasket.

So, a few questions:
1. could it be the fuel pump itself leaking the oil (rather than at the gasket)?
2. the fuel pump is secured with two 1/2" nuts.  Any special tips on how to access the rear one - I tried a socket, box wrench and crescent wrench?  No luck.
3. Any other tips or tricks to replacing the fuel pump gasket?  Once I get the two nuts off I suspect it is a 15 minute job at most(?).  I am hoping I can get enough clearance to replace the gasket with out having to detach the in/out fuel lines.

FYI, I spent most of this year looking at crankcase pressurization but have ruled that out.  The PCV is in perfect condition, the compression is great and the spark plugs are perfect (no signs of burning oil).

Thanks

Bob

Answer
Hi Bob,
The gasket or if it has a insulator block look for cracks in it too. If it has the insulator block there is a gasket on each side of the block. Many fuel pumps have a small bleed hole for fuel just in case of a diaphragm failure and if you have excess crankcase pressure or the crank case is over full you can get a leak there too.
An off set wrench or a "Crows Foot" will make it easier to remove.
Howard