should there be bolts in these holes?

[jimzz2001]

OK I have a 1985 Georgie Boy 454 engine.

The oil was changed today and we noticed there had been some oil leakage. nothing severe but I want to nip it.

One area that it looked like some was coming from was just in front of the transmission filter pan. I believe this is the area of the torque converter. There are 2 mounting ears with holes about the size of a pinky. the holes are threaded but there are no bolts in either hole.. Should there be? It almost looks like they are their for possibly adding a tranny cooler. and using these holes to bolt it in place..that's just a guess. anyway Who wants to crawl under their 454 and see if there are empty holes Or bolts in this area????

[Nuge]

Is there a thin metal plate there to cover the front of the bell housing? It's been a while, but that's what was on our Olds Custom Cruiser Station Wagon when I changed out the engine...I can look at our RV next time we get out there. We have a Chevy 454 in ours. too, but it's 85 miles away and we just can't get down there right now.

[Gary - K7GLD]

YUP - most likely retaining bolts for the metal torque converter inspection plate - definitely NOT a source for a leak, BUT, leakage showing at that point probably IS an indication of a leaking rear main engine seal, or a torque converter seal...

[bigskymt]

That looks like the bolts for the flywheel cover. They should be 1/4"X20X1/2" long with star washers from the factory. Often times they get lost when one removes the cover.
The most logical leak is the valve cover gaskets as they allow oil to run down and air flow pushes it everwhere. If you remove the cover (by removing the starter) and it's wet inside the bell housing (top & sides) your rear main is leaking.
If its red fluid then count on a torque converter seal as Gary-K7GLD said.