Installing An Oil Pan Gasket On A Chevy 350 Engine

Installing an oil pan gasket on a 78 Chevy 350 can be a challenging task, especially with the engine still in the vehicle. One of the difficulties is aligning the gasket and the oil pan while trying to get a bolt started. In addition, there is often limited clearance when removing or installing the oil pan. However, with careful planning and the right tools, it is possible to successfully install a new oil pan gasket. Some people recommend using Fel-Pro oil pan SnapUps to simplify the process. It is also important to note that different types of gaskets require different installation methods, with some needing adhesives and others being installed dry.

Removing the motor mount bolts and lifting the engine

To remove the motor mount bolts and lift the engine of a 78 Chevy 350, you'll need to follow these steps:

First, disconnect the motor mounts. The Chevy 350 engine uses two motor mounts, which are located on each side of the engine and secure it within the engine compartment. Remove the bolts on both motor mounts with a wrench.

Next, you'll need to lift the engine slightly to remove the motor mounts completely. Engine lifts are available in different designs, but all involve bolting a device to the engine and using a hydraulic cylinder and handle to raise it. Common locations to mount the lift's chain(s) include the top of the intake manifold, the front of one cylinder head, and the rear of the opposite cylinder head. Actuate the engine lift handle just enough to begin raising the engine, then remove the long bolt that secures each upper and lower engine mount.

Now, raise the engine just enough to disconnect the motor mount brackets. Once the engine is lifted, slide the motor mounts out of the engine compartment.

At this point, you can proceed with installing the new oil pan gasket. Remember to clean the pan thoroughly before installing the new gasket. Additionally, consider changing the rear main seal while you're working on the engine.

When installing the new gasket, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. It's also important to ensure that the engine is securely supported and stabilised throughout the process to avoid any accidental drops or shifts that could cause damage.

Using a jack to raise the engine

To install an oil pan gasket on a 78 Chevy 350, you'll need to raise the engine. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do this using a jack:

Step 1: Park Your Car

Park your car on a hard, flat surface, such as a level parking lot or driveway. Make sure you're away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights for added safety. If you're working on a soft or broken surface, use a thick, flat piece of wood under the jack to create a stable platform.

Step 2: Secure Your Car

Use wheel chocks, bricks, cinder blocks, large rocks, or wedge-shaped pieces of wood to prevent the wheels from rolling. Place these on either side of each wheel, opposite to where you plan to lift the car. Additionally, set your car's parking brake and put it in the lowest gear if it has a manual transmission.

Step 3: Locate the Jack Points

Refer to your car's owner's manual to locate the jack points. These are reinforced points along the body where the vehicle is designed to be lifted. Typically, you'll find jack points behind the front wheels or in front of the rear wheels, often next to the rocker panels.

Step 4: Position the Jack

Place the jack under one of the jack points, ensuring that the flat base is facing down. Adjust the jack's position as needed so that it lines up correctly with the jack point.

Step 5: Raise the Jack

Depending on the type of jack you have, use the lever or crank to raise it. Keep raising the jack until it touches the car. As you get closer, make fine adjustments to ensure it aligns properly with the jack point. Continue jacking until the car is lifted and you have enough clearance to access the engine.

Step 6: Use Jack Stands

If you need to work underneath the car, it's crucial to use jack stands for added safety. Place the jack stands next to the jack and raise them until they touch the jack points. Then, slowly lower the jack until the car's weight is supported by the jack stands. Ensure that both the jack and jack stands are positioned securely on the jack points.

Step 7: Lower the Car

Once you've completed your work, it's time to lower the car. Remove the jack stands, if you used them, and then gradually lower the car back to the ground by reversing the jack's raising mechanism. Remember to work cautiously and avoid putting any body parts under the car while it's lifted.

Cleaning the oil pan

To clean the oil pan of your 1978 Chevrolet 350, you'll first need to remove the oil pan from the vehicle. This can be done by following these general steps:

• Remove the motor mount bolts.
• Unbolt the fan shroud to allow the engine to clear the fan.
• Jack up the engine from the front and place a block of wood under the balancer to lift it up. An engine hoist can also be used for this step.
• Lift the engine high enough to clear the oil pump pickup, approximately 6 inches or so.

Once the oil pan is removed, you can begin the cleaning process. Here are some methods and tips for cleaning the oil pan:

Cleaning Methods:

• Soak the oil pan in hot water and dish soap, then scrub it with a brush. Repeat this process until the pan is clean.
• Use a scraper, wire wheel, and brake cleaner to remove any built-up grease or grime.
• Soak the oil pan in oven cleaner or degreaser, then wash it off with high-pressure soapy water.
• Use mineral spirits to clean the oil pan if you're looking for a gentler option that's still effective.
• If you have access to one, use a media (sand) blaster to clean the pan, followed by a wash in soapy water to remove any residual grit.
• Take the oil pan to an auto shop and have it professionally cleaned using a hot tank or their alternative cleaning systems.

Additional Tips:

• Remove any caked-on debris with a paint scraper or coarse steel wool before beginning the cleaning process.
• If your oil pan has baffles, be sure to clean underneath them as well.
• Rinse the oil pan with hot water to ensure all soap and cleaning solutions are removed.
• Dry the oil pan thoroughly before reinstalling it to prevent any water contamination.

Installing a new gasket

Step 1: Jack up the engine and secure it: Start by jacking up the front of the engine and placing a block of wood under the balancer. Ensure the engine is lifted high enough to clear the oil pump pickup, approximately 6 inches. It is crucial to support the engine securely to prevent it from falling.

Step 2: Remove the old gasket: Once the engine is raised, carefully remove the old oil pan gasket. Clean the surface of the oil pan and engine block where the new gasket will be installed. It is essential to ensure that the surfaces are free of any debris, old gasket material, or residue.

Step 3: Prepare the new gasket: Select a gasket that matches your Chevy 350's specifications. Some gaskets, like the Fel-Pro® oil pan gasket, are designed to be installed dry, while others may require a small amount of RTV or adhesive. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific gasket.

Step 4: Install the new gasket: Position the new gasket carefully, ensuring it is aligned correctly. You may use Fel-Pro oil pan SnapUps to simplify this process. SnapUps are reusable tools that help hold the gasket and oil pan in place while you start threading the bolts.

Step 5: Reattach the oil pan: With the new gasket in place, carefully lower the oil pan back into position. Start threading the bolts by hand to ensure they are properly aligned and then tighten them with the appropriate tool. Do not overtighten the bolts, as this can damage the gasket.

Step 6: Lower the engine: Once the oil pan and gasket are securely in place, carefully lower the engine back to its original position. Reattach any components that were removed during the process, such as the motor mount bolts, fan shroud, and distributor cap.

Step 7: Final checks: Before starting the engine, perform a final inspection to ensure that all bolts are tightened correctly and that there are no leaks. Check the oil level and add fresh oil if necessary. Start the engine and inspect for any signs of leaks. If no leaks are detected, your new oil pan gasket is successfully installed!

Remember to exercise caution throughout the process and refer to a qualified mechanic if you have any doubts or concerns.

Using a one-piece gasket

To install a one-piece oil pan gasket on a 78 Chevy 350, you'll need to first prepare the vehicle by parking it on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Then, follow these steps:

• Remove the negative battery cable from the battery.
• Drain the oil from the engine by placing a suitable container under the drain plug, removing the plug using a socket wrench, and allowing the oil to drain completely.
• Locate and remove the bolts securing the oil pan to the engine block. You may need to remove additional components, such as the motor mount bolts, fan shroud, or distributor cap, for better access.
• Carefully lower the oil pan, cleaning it with a suitable solvent once it's removed.
• Clean the mating surface on the engine block, ensuring it's free of any old gasket material, debris, or residue.
• Take your new one-piece oil pan gasket and apply a thin coat of engine oil or gasket sealant to both sides. This will help create a better seal and prevent gasket leaks.
• Position the new gasket onto the engine block, ensuring it's properly aligned with the bolt holes and oil pan rail.
• Reinstall the oil pan, ensuring it's seated correctly on the gasket. Secure the oil pan with the appropriate bolts, tightening them in a crisscross pattern and following the specified torque sequence and values provided by the manufacturer.
• Reinstall any components that were previously removed, such as the motor mount bolts, fan shroud, or distributor cap.
• Reattach the negative battery cable to the battery.
• Refill the engine with the appropriate type and amount of oil.
• Start the engine and check for any leaks. Let the engine run for a few minutes, then recheck the oil level and add more oil if necessary.

It's important to work carefully and consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Additionally, always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the correct type and amount of oil to use.

Frequently asked questions