Turbo Oil Drain: Back To The Pan?

Turbo oil is drained away from the turbocharger's bearings via a pipe that connects the charger's oil gallery to the engine. The pipe is typically connected to the sump or the lower portion of the engine block. The oil drain pipe must be large enough to drain enough oil away quickly. The oil drains away from the turbo by gravity only, with no pressure on the drain side of the turbo. The return line should not have any dips or loops so that oil does not pool inside the drain. The centre oil gallery of the turbo should not be rotated more than 15 degrees, otherwise, the oil will puddle and may bypass the seals.

Drilling and tapping the oil pan

• Prepare the tools and materials: You will need a drill, a tap (a tool for creating threads), a centre punch, multi-purpose grease, a hose barb fitting, and a new oil drain line.
• Locate the target area: Refer to the instruction manual of your turbocharger or supercharger to identify the exact location on the oil pan where you need to create the hole. Mark this spot with a centre punch. It is important to choose a location above the oil line to ensure proper drainage.
• Punch the hole: Using a hammer, tap the centre punch into the marked spot until you create a hole of the required size. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the hose barb fitting.
• Apply grease to the tap: Before using the tap, pack its flutes (channels) with multi-purpose grease. This will help catch any metal particles or shavings that may be created during the tapping process, preventing them from falling into the oil pan.
• Create the threads: Use the tap to create threads inside the hole. This will allow you to securely attach the hose barb fitting. Make sure to go slowly and wipe the tap frequently to remove any grease or debris.
• Install the hose barb fitting: Once the tapping is complete, screw the hose barb fitting into the threaded hole. You can use Teflon tape or JB Weld to seal the fitting and prevent leaks.
• Attach the oil drain line: Connect the new oil drain line to the hose barb fitting. Ensure that the line has a smooth and downhill path to allow for effective drainage.
• Change the oil: After completing the installation, it is recommended to change the oil to flush out any particles that may have entered the oil pan during the process.

When drilling and tapping the oil pan, it is crucial to take precautions to avoid metal shavings from contaminating the oil. Some people choose to remove the oil pan from the engine to perform this task, while others attempt to do it while the pan is still in place. If you decide to drill and tap with the pan in the car, here are some additional tips:

• Use a drill that allows you to control the speed.
• Dip the drill bit into grease or lubricant before drilling. Stop drilling periodically to wipe off the grease and remove any metal shavings.
• Use a vacuum or air hose to capture metal shavings and prevent them from falling into the oil pan.
• Drill slowly and carefully to minimise the creation of metal shavings.
• After drilling, use your finger or a magnet to remove any metal flakes or shavings from the hole.

Using a bulkhead fitting

A bulkhead fitting can be used to drain turbo oil back into the pan. This method is suitable for those who don't want to weld a bung or don't have the pipe taps to do so. It involves drilling a hole in the oil pan and inserting a bulkhead fitting, which is then tightened and sealed. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Measure down about 1/2"-5/8" from the bottom side of the pan flange.
• Drill a pilot hole at the measured location.
• Drill the hole to 7/8" diameter.
• Test fit the bulkhead fitting.
• Apply a small amount of silicone sealer to the threads of the fitting.
• Insert the fitting into the pan and tighten it.
• Double-check for any metal chips or foreign debris inside the pan.
• Reinstall the oil pan.

It is important to note that the location of the oil drain can vary between automatic and manual transmissions. Ensure that the oil is not dumping onto the balance shafts or directly at the shaft housing. Additionally, when choosing a bulkhead fitting, consider using a 45-degree or 90-degree fitting for a shorter gravity-fed line.

Some people prefer welding a bung or using a tap and die set to create threads in the oil pan for the drain. However, the bulkhead fitting method is a quicker and easier alternative that does not require welding or tapping skills.

When using a bulkhead fitting, it is crucial to measure and double-check the location of the hole to ensure a proper fit and avoid any interference with other components. Always use a sealing washer or silicone sealer to prevent leaks.

Braided line vs solid line

Braided line is a type of fishing line that is made up of multiple strands of material, usually a type of polyethylene, woven together to form a single line. Solid line, on the other hand, is a single strand of material, typically monofilament or fluorocarbon. So, what are the pros and cons of each?

Braided Line

Braided line has several advantages over solid line. Firstly, it is much thinner in diameter compared to similar pound-test monofilaments and fluorocarbons, which allows for longer casts and increased stealth when fishing in clear water. It also has greater tensile strength, which means it can withstand more pressure before breaking. Additionally, braided line is more sensitive than solid line, allowing anglers to detect even the slightest bites or movements. It also cuts through vegetation with ease, making it a good choice for fishing in areas with heavy cover. Braided line also tends to be more durable and last longer, saving anglers money in the long run.

However, one disadvantage of braided line is that it can be more expensive than solid line. It also tends to be stiffer, which can make it more difficult to manage, especially for beginners. Braided line can also be noisier as it moves through the rod's line guides, which may spook fish.

Solid Line

Solid line, also known as monofilament or fluorocarbon line, has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. One of the main benefits of solid line is its stretchability, which provides increased shock absorption and can result in fewer lost fish. Solid line also tends to be cheaper than braided line, making it a more economical option for anglers on a budget. Additionally, solid line is generally easier to handle and knot, making it a good choice for beginners or those who prefer simplicity.

On the downside, solid line has a larger diameter than braided line, which can limit cast distance and make it more visible to fish in clear water. It also tends to have less tensile strength, so it may not be the best choice for heavy cover or large, powerful fish. Solid line is also more prone to abrasion and may not last as long as braided line.

So, which is better, braided or solid line? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of fishing being done, the experience level of the angler, and personal preferences. Braided line is ideal for situations where long casts, stealth, and durability are important, such as fishing in heavy cover or clear water. It is also a good choice for anglers targeting large, powerful fish that may put a lot of pressure on the line. However, braided line can be more expensive and may be more challenging to handle for beginners. Solid line, on the other hand, is a better choice for those looking for an economical, easy-to-use option that provides good stretch and shock absorption. It is also a good choice for situations where visibility is not a concern, such as fishing in murky or stained water. Ultimately, the best line for any given situation will depend on a variety of factors, and anglers may find that they prefer to use different types of lines for different applications.

Oil drain angle

The oil drain angle is an important consideration when setting up an oil drain for a turbocharger. The oil drain pipe connects the turbocharger's oil gallery to the engine, typically draining into the sump or the lower portion of the engine block. Here are some key points to consider regarding the oil drain angle:

• The oil in a turbocharger drains away from the bearings by gravity only; there is no pressure on the drain side. Therefore, the oil drain line should be straight and free of dips or loops to ensure the oil does not pool or restrict the flow.
• The centre oil gallery of the turbocharger should not be rotated more than 15 degrees. Exceeding this angle can cause oil to puddle and potentially bypass the seals, leading to smoking issues if oil enters the exhaust housing.
• When using braided line for the oil drain, heat becomes a major issue. The rubber or Teflon inside the braided line can melt if it gets too hot. Using a solid line made from stainless steel eliminates this issue but introduces challenges in fabrication and alignment.
• To ensure proper drainage, the oil drain line should be sized appropriately. A minimum inside diameter of 13mm is recommended, and the line size should be increased if there is a large oil feed line with no oil restrictor.
• When drilling and tapping the oil pan to install a drain fitting, it is crucial to ensure that the oil pan is thick enough and that any metal shavings are thoroughly cleaned to avoid issues.
• The drain angle of the turbocharger's oil gallery should be considered in relation to the position of the wastegate port. Using tube elbows instead of threaded adapters can help reduce the angle and improve clearance.

In summary, maintaining a straight and unobstructed oil drain line with an appropriate drain angle is crucial for effective turbocharger oil drainage. By following these guidelines and considering the specific requirements of your setup, you can ensure proper oil drainage and prevent potential issues.

Drain line dips and loops

Drain lines are an important part of plumbing and vehicle maintenance. They are used to carry wastewater away from fixtures, drains, and pipes in a building or vehicle.

When it comes to drain line dips and loops, it is important to ensure that the line is installed with the proper pitch or slope to facilitate effective drainage. The recommended minimum slope for water drainage is 1/4" per foot of pipe run. This ensures that wastewater flows at an appropriate rate and helps to prevent blockages.

In the context of turbo oil drains, it is crucial to avoid dips or loops in the return line to prevent oil from pooling inside the drain. Additionally, the center oil gallery of the turbo should not be rotated more than 15 degrees to ensure proper drainage.

To achieve a smooth drainage system and avoid blockages, it is recommended to use a straight and large-diameter drain line. Kinks or restrictions in the line can impede the flow and cause blockages, leading to potential leaks and damage.

When modifying or installing a turbo oil drain, it is important to consider the angle and orientation of the center housing to keep the drainage angle within the recommended range. This can be adjusted by loosening the bolts that hold the center oil gallery in place, allowing for slight rotations to achieve the desired angle.

In summary, drain line dips and loops can cause issues with proper drainage. By ensuring the correct slope, avoiding dips and loops, and maintaining appropriate angles, you can facilitate effective drainage and prevent blockages in turbo oil drains and plumbing systems.

Frequently asked questions