In-car oil pump removal on a 51 Cambridge?

[motoMark]

While replacing the oil pan gasket and lower rear main seal, I noticed the oil pump housing plate was leaking and figured I'd tackle that too. And since I was doing that, why not remove the whole pump and replace that gasket too.

 

To my surprise, I can't get the pump out. The pump shaft drive gear doesn't clear the block before the housing hits the frame rail. So it looks like there is no way to remove the pump unless I somehow shift the engine over towards the drivers side. Seems kind of odd.

 

Am I missing something?

[Plymouthy Adams]

you may need to lift the engine for this a bit for clearance....not that involved....watch the fan in the area of the radiator and hoses.....you may also need to remove the two upper cover bolts...in some cases this may be enough....but don't count it for every model.