[sprintamx]

The motor was not modified/rebuilt by motor-meister, but by a well known, well respected builder.

Dfink: If I read your post correctly, are you suggesting that the motors were sealed at the factory with sealant on the case around the bearings, rather than just metal-to-metal?

Also, is it possible that even a bit too much sealant on those particular areas is enough to push the halves far enough apart to prevent proper seating of the crank?