Congratulations!! I hope it continues to hold for you. Out of all the answers/comments I have read all over the place this one makes the most sense. You also have proof it worked! most everyone gets stuck that it is a wet bell housing so it must be the started. I can not think of one sane person that would intentionally put a starter motor where it would live and work submerged in oil, seals or not. I am looking for a pump for the old girl now.

Thank you