DETROIT DIESEL 53
4.7
OIL PAN
The oil pan may be made of steel, cast iron or cast aluminum. A shallow or deep sump type oil pan is used, depending
upon the particular engine application. A one-piece oil pan gasket is used with stamped steel pans.
Removing and Installing Oil Pan
On some engine applications, it may be possible to remove the oil pan without removing the engine. It is recommended
that if the engine is to be taken out of the unit, the oil pan be left in place until the engine is removed. The procedure for
removing the oil pan without taking the engine out and after taking the engine out of the unit will vary. However, the
following will generally apply.
1.
Remove the drain plug and drain the engine lubricating oil.
2.
Detach the oil pan; take precautions to avoid damaging the oil pump inlet pipe and screen.
NOTE: Stamped oil pans used on some marine engines have a layer of lead or cadmium beneath the paint to
protect the pans against the salt water atmosphere encountered in some marine applications. If this coating is
scuffed or broken unknowingly, corrosion or electrolysis may result. Electrolysis in the form of small holes will eat
through the pan at the scuffed area. Therefore, do not rest, slide or rock the engine on its oil pan when removing it.
Every precaution should be taken before installation to prevent nicks and scratches on stamped marine oil pans.
Also exercise care when performing engine repairs to avoid scratching the outer surface of the oil pan.
3.
Remove the oil pan gasket completely.
4. Clean the oil pan with a suitable solvent and dry it with compressed air.
5. Inspect a cast oil pan for porosity or cracks. Check a stamped oil pan for large dents or breaks in the metal which
may necessitate its repair or replacement. Check for misaligned flanges or raised surfaces surrounding the bolt holes by
placing the pan on a surface plate or other large flat surface.
6. When replacing the pan, use a new gasket and tighten the bolts evenly to avoid damaging the gasket or springing
the pan.
7. Install and tighten the oil drain plug. Tighten the plug (with nylon washer) to 25-35 lb.-ft torque. Replenish the
lubricating oil supply and, after the engine is started, check for leaks.
Fig. 1 - Typical Oil Pan
April, 1971 Sec. 4.7
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