Tapping A Steel Oil Pan: Step-By-Step Guide

Tapping a steel oil pan on a car is a process that involves punching a small hole in the side of the oil pan and using a tap to create threads to secure a hose barb fitting. The oil drain line is then attached to this fitting. This process is typically done when installing a turbocharger or supercharger, as these require an oil feed and return line to function properly. When tapping the oil pan, it is important to take precautions to avoid metal shavings from getting into the oil pan, as this can cause damage to the engine. Techniques to avoid this include using grease to catch the shavings and drilling slowly and in small increments.

Use a tap to create threads to secure the hose barb fitting

Tapping a steel oil pan on a car requires punching a small hole in the side of the oil pan above the oil line. This is done in a specific, predetermined location as per the instruction manual. After punching the hole, a tap—a tool used to create female threads in a punched hole—is used to create threads to secure the hose barb fitting. The oil drain line is then attached to the fitting.

To secure the hose barb fitting, it is crucial to select the correct barbed connector. Hose barbs are available in various styles, including straight, elbow, cross, Y- and T-connectors. The choice of barb depends on factors such as the material, elasticity, durometer, and dimensions of the tubing. It is also important to consider the use and selection of a retention device, ease of assembly, intended use, and required pressure and pull-off resistance.

When tapping the oil pan, it is essential to avoid metal shavings from getting into the oil pan. This can be done by using lots of grease and drilling small amounts at a time, greasing the bit, drilling, and then wiping off the bit and hole repeatedly. After drilling, it is recommended to change the oil a couple of times in case any shavings got into the oil pan.

Additionally, when securing the hose barb fitting, it is important to ensure a tight and leak-free connection. This can be achieved by using a hose that is compatible with the barb and provides a secure fit. It is also crucial to consider the pull-off and blow-off resistance of the connection to prevent leaks and failures.

Avoid metal shavings getting into the oil pan

Metal shavings in the oil pan of a car can cause serious damage to the engine. The oil in a car passes through and around many moving parts. As a result of the speed of these moving parts and the amount of usage, some metal will slowly chip off over time. This is a normal part of engine wear and can be prevented with regular maintenance checks.

To avoid metal shavings getting into the oil pan, it is important to regularly check and replace the oil and oil filter. The oil filter is responsible for catching metal flakes, but it is not always effective, and some flakes may still get through. By regularly changing the oil and oil filter, you can reduce the risk of metal flakes building up and causing issues for your engine.

In addition to regular maintenance, there are a few other ways to prevent metal shavings from getting into the oil pan:

• Use a magnetic drain plug to help clean out any metal shavings that may be present.
• Install a magnet in the bottom of the oil pan to catch any metal shavings.
• Use a fine sieve to monitor the oil and check for metal shavings.
• Avoid drilling or tapping the oil pan, as this can cause shavings to get into the oil. Instead, consider welding a fitting onto the pan or using a bulkhead fitting.

It is also important to be careful when performing maintenance and repairs on the car. Any time you are working on the engine, there is a risk of metal shavings getting into the oil. Always use the proper tools and techniques to minimise this risk.

Drill small amounts at a time, grease, drill, wipe, repeat

Drilling small amounts at a time is a critical technique when tapping a steel oil pan on a car. This method helps to prevent metal shavings from falling into the oil pan, which could cause serious engine damage. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tap a steel oil pan on a car, focusing on the "drill small amounts at a time, grease, drill, wipe, repeat" technique:

Preparation:

Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a power drill with the appropriate drill bits, tapping tools (taps, tap wrench or tap holder), high-quality grease fittings, thread sealant or tape, and safety equipment such as gloves and goggles.

Identify the Correct Location:

Determine the precise location for the grease fitting on the oil pan. This spot should be accessible for maintenance and free from obstructions. Use a center punch to mark the exact drilling location, creating a small indentation that will guide the drill bit.

Drilling Technique:

Secure the oil pan firmly using a vice or clamps to prevent movement. Select the correct drill bit size, slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the tap. Apply cutting oil or lubricant to the drill bit to reduce friction and heat. Position the drill bit over the center punch mark and start drilling at a low speed, gradually increasing the speed as the bit cuts into the metal. Drill only a few millimeters at a time.

Greasing and Drilling:

Apply grease to the drill bit before drilling again. This will help catch any metal shavings and prevent them from falling into the oil pan. Drill slowly and steadily, allowing the bit to do the work. Avoid pushing too hard, as it can cause the bit to overheat or break.

Wiping and Repeating:

After drilling a small amount, remove the drill bit and wipe off any metal shavings. Repeat the process of greasing the drill bit, drilling a few millimeters, and then wiping off the shavings. Continue this cycle until you have drilled to the desired depth. Ensure the hole is straight and free of burrs or rough edges.

Tapping the Hole:

After drilling, it's time to create threads in the hole using a tap. Choose the correct tap size that matches the grease fitting. Apply cutting fluid to the tap and the hole to reduce friction and flush out metal shavings. Start the tap straight and perpendicular to the hole, using a tap wrench to turn it clockwise. Turn the tap slowly, clearing metal chips regularly by turning it back slightly after every half turn. Continue this process until the tap has cut threads to the desired depth.

Final Steps:

Remove the tap and inspect the threads, ensuring they are clean and free of metal shavings. Clean the hole with a brush or compressed air. Apply thread sealant or tape to the grease fitting's threads to create a secure and leak-free connection. Screw in the grease fitting by hand, then use a wrench to secure it, being careful not to over-tighten. Finally, test the installation by attaching a grease gun and applying grease to ensure there are no leaks.

This process of "drill small amounts at a time, grease, drill, wipe, repeat" is crucial when tapping a steel oil pan on a car. It ensures that metal shavings are minimized and contained, reducing the risk of engine damage. By following these steps carefully, you can successfully tap the oil pan while it's still on the car, avoiding the more complex process of removing the pan.

Pack flutes of the tap with multi-purpose grease

To tap a steel oil pan on a car, you will need to punch a small hole in the side of the oil pan above the oil line. This can be done by using a center punch and hammer to create a hole of the required size.

Now, here's a detailed guide on packing the flutes of the tap with multi-purpose grease:

• The tap has four channels called flutes, which need to be packed with grease. This is a crucial step to ensure that any particles produced during the tapping process are caught, preventing them from entering the oil pan.
• Before starting, make sure you have a suitable multi-purpose grease. It should be compatible with the materials of your tap and oil pan to ensure effectiveness and avoid any unwanted reactions.
• Clean the tap thoroughly. Use a solvent or degreaser to remove any dirt, oil, or residue from the tap. This step ensures that the grease adheres properly and can effectively capture any particles.
• Using a small brush, spatula, or your finger, coat each of the four flutes with a generous amount of grease. Make sure to get into all the crevices and grooves of the flutes.
• After applying the grease, inspect the tap to ensure that the grease is evenly distributed and covers all surfaces of the flutes.
• Once you are satisfied with the grease application, you may proceed to the next step of the tapping process, which involves using the tap to create threads to seat the hose barb.

By packing the flutes of the tap with multi-purpose grease, you can help ensure that the process of tapping your steel oil pan is safe and effective, reducing the risk of contamination and potential issues with your vehicle's engine.

Tap the pan with a punch

Tapping a steel oil pan on a car involves punching a small hole in the side of the oil pan and using a tap to create threads to secure a hose barb fitting, to which the oil drain line is attached. This process is known as "tapping a pan".

When tapping the pan with a punch, it is important to follow these steps:

• Use the provided measurements to mark the target hole.
• Punch the hole with a specified centre punch. Simply tap the tapered centre punch into the hole with a hammer.
• Continue punching until the hole is the required size. The deeper the punch goes into the pan, the larger the hole becomes.
• Pack the flutes of the tap with multi-purpose grease to catch any particles before they enter the pan.
• Do not drill the hole. Punching the steel pan causes the material to bend and flower inwards, providing a tapered, tight, and leak-free fitting for the hose barb to be threaded into.

By following these steps, you can effectively tap a steel oil pan on a car using a punch, ensuring a secure and leak-free fitting for the hose barb.

Frequently asked questions