. Oil pan gasket replacement

[66hcs-conv]

HI all,

Looks like I need to replace the oil pan gasket on the 66 HCS - 289, W/power steering. Its leaking at the rear - will leave a 2X2 spot on the garage floor every nite.

Looks like I need to remove the big heavy cross brace (runs left to right), and possibly the idler arm (to lower steering).

Please tell me of any other problems I may encounter, and any hints you folks can offer.

THANKS, I appreciate your input. :smile:

Dave Spry

 

[rvrtrash]

The cross piece isn't very heavy and the idler is easy to drop. You may want to make it even easier by having a pickle fork handy and dropping the drag link from the pitman arm as well. Use some gasket adhesive to hold the gaskets and seals in place, put a little extra at the corners where the end seals mate with the side gaskets and you should be good. One thing I always do is put a thin steel block in the bolt channel and lightly tap the bolt holes from the other side so they are flat again. I think it gives a better seal.

Steve

 

[Mosesatm]

The cross piece isn't very heavy and the idler is easy to drop. You may want to make it even easier by having a pickle fork handy and dropping the drag link from the pitman arm as well. Use some gasket adhesive to hold the gaskets and seals in place, put a little extra at the corners where the end seals mate with the side gaskets and you should be good. One thing I always do is put a thin steel block in the bolt channel and lightly tap the bolt holes from the other side so they are flat again. I think it gives a better seal.

Steve

Excellent points!

 

[66hcs-conv]

Thanks for the advise - I had forgotten about getting the pan surfaces straight & true.

 

[TheBlkPearl]

Dang

It's easiest when the motor is out and upside down.............I used a one-piece Mr. Gasket gasket the last time and it worked well. The standard multiple piece gaskets can be touchy to get sealed. As was mentioned, a smooth clean surface is a must. Retighten the bolts after warming the engine.

Good luck

Randy