The Focus St Oil Pan: Good Or Bad Decision?

The oil pan in a car is an essential component, and any issues with it can lead to significant problems. The Ford Focus ST, a popular vehicle, has sparked discussions among car enthusiasts and owners regarding its oil pan. Some have questioned the presence of an oil baffle, a feature that prevents oil starvation, in the 2013 models and later variants. Others have shared their experiences with oil pan removal, offering tips and suggestions for a successful process. Oil type and change frequency are also hot topics, with various opinions on the best products and intervals for optimal engine performance and longevity. With the Focus ST's oil pan drawing mixed reactions, it's essential to explore the pros and cons to make an informed decision about this vehicle's maintenance and any necessary modifications.

Oil pan baffles are important for Auto-X situations

In an Auto-X situation, a car undergoes high lateral G-forces, which can cause the oil to move away from the sump pickup, leading to oil starvation. Oil pan baffles help to prevent this by acting as a barrier and keeping the oil close to the pickup. This ensures that the engine receives a consistent supply of oil, maintaining optimal oil pressure and preventing potential damage.

The effectiveness of oil pan baffles in Auto-X situations has been demonstrated by several users in online forums. One user with a 2018 FoST reported winning their STH class in 2019 without experiencing any oil-related issues. Another user with a highly modified car running 275w 200tw tires and monitoring actual oil pressure reported no pressure issues on the track.

While oil pan baffles are important for Auto-X situations, they may not be necessary for daily driving or less aggressive driving styles. Some cars, such as the Ford Focus ST, come equipped with factory oil pan baffles that are sufficient for normal driving conditions. However, for more extreme driving situations, such as Auto-X or track days, it may be beneficial to install an aftermarket oil pan baffle for added protection against oil starvation.

Overall, oil pan baffles play a crucial role in ensuring adequate oil supply during high-performance driving, making them an important consideration for Auto-X enthusiasts and racers. By preventing oil starvation, they help maintain engine performance and reliability, contributing to a more enjoyable and safe driving experience.

The 2013 Focus ST has an oil pan baffle from the factory

The process of removing and replacing the oil pan in the 2013 Focus ST is a common topic of discussion among car enthusiasts. It is recommended to loosen the AC compressor to make the job easier. Additionally, some people have shared their experiences and provided tips on how to remove the oil pan, such as using a claw hammer or a plastic separator to gently pry it off. It is important to be cautious during this process to avoid damaging other components, such as the timing cover and the transmission case.

When it comes to the oil pan baffle itself, there have been reports of some 2015+ engines that do not have factory baffles, and even some 2014 models are missing parts of the baffle. In these cases, it is common to drill and tap the oil pan to install an aftermarket baffle kit. It is recommended to use black RTV gasket maker or a similar product to seal the baffle properly.

Overall, while the factory oil pan baffle in the 2013 Focus ST is considered sufficient for most driving situations, there are aftermarket options available for those who want added protection during performance driving or racing. Upgrading to an aftermarket oil pan baffle kit can provide a more comprehensive solution to prevent oil starvation and ensure the engine receives adequate lubrication during extreme manoeuvres.

The oil pan is difficult to remove

The oil pan in a Ford Focus ST can be difficult to remove, and several online forum users have expressed frustration with the process. One user reported that they were able to unbolt the oil pan but were unable to remove it, as it would not budge. They were concerned about damaging the lower lip of the timing cover and/or the lower portion of the transmission case.

To remove the oil pan, it is recommended to loosen the AC compressor first to make the process easier. Then, using a claw hammer, you can leverage the claw on the protrusion against the intermediate drive shaft to pop the pan off. Another suggestion is to use a flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry the pan off, being careful not to damage the sealing surface. Some users have also recommended using a heat gun to carefully heat up the RTV around the pan, which can make it easier to insert plastic wedges to separate the pan.

It is important to note that using a screwdriver to pry the oil pan can potentially damage the sealing surface or bend the pan. Instead, it is recommended to use plastic tools, such as cheap plastic putty knives, to tap between the gasket and the block. This can help break the seal and loosen the oil pan without causing damage.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that some users have reported success in removing the oil pan by kicking it or using a hammer and a block of wood to knock it loose. While these methods may work, they are not recommended as they can potentially cause damage to the vehicle.

The oil pan has a protruding area that can be leveraged with a claw hammer

The oil pan on a Ford Focus ST can be challenging to remove, but it's not impossible. The oil pan has a protruding area that can be leveraged with a claw hammer. This technique involves placing the claw of the hammer on the protrusion and prying against the intermediate drive shaft. It might take some force, but this method can effectively remove the oil pan.

When removing the oil pan, it is essential to loosen the AC compressor first to make the process easier. Additionally, it is recommended to remove the A/C mount stud, which is a 4mm hex, and roll the compressor off its indexing dowels to move it out of the way. This provides better access to the oil pan and the necessary leverage points.

It is worth noting that some people have expressed concerns about using a screwdriver to remove the oil pan, as it can damage the sealing surface. Instead, a claw hammer or a plastic separator can be used to gently pry the pan off. Another suggestion is to use a heat gun to carefully heat the RTV around the pan, making it easier to insert plastic wedges for separation.

It is always recommended to refer to the appropriate service manual or seek professional assistance if you are uncomfortable performing these tasks yourself. Safety should be the top priority when working on your vehicle.

The balance shaft delete is not worth it

Firstly, the balance shaft delete is a complex and time-consuming process that requires a wide range of tools and a good deal of technical knowledge. It is not a simple task and can be challenging even for experienced mechanics.

Secondly, removing the balance shaft can lead to increased noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) in the vehicle. This means that your car may become noticeably louder and more uncomfortable to drive, especially over long distances or for daily use.

Thirdly, and most importantly, the balance shaft delete can have negative consequences for the engine's durability. The balance shaft is there to counter the forces of the rotating mass of the crankshaft, and removing it can lead to increased stress and wear on the engine components. This could potentially lead to serious and costly engine issues in the long run.

While the balance shaft delete may result in a slight increase in engine responsiveness and a small weight reduction, these benefits are outweighed by the potential drawbacks. It is important to carefully consider the risks before proceeding with any modifications, especially those that involve removing critical engine components.

Therefore, unless you are building a dedicated track car and are prepared to deal with the potential consequences, the balance shaft delete is not a modification that is generally worth pursuing.

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