Understanding Oil Pan Spreader Bars: Function And Importance

Oil pan spreader bars are plates that go under oil pan bolts to distribute the bolt torque. They are used to spread the torque load on the oil pan's rail to maintain even pressure along the entire pan rail, creating a better seal. Oil pan spreader bars are especially useful when using imported junk pans that don't fit well and tend to leak.

Oil Pan Spreader Bar Characteristics and Values Table

Oil pan spreader bars distribute bolt torque

Oil pan spreader bars are plates that go under oil pan bolts to distribute bolt torque. They are used to achieve the tightest seal possible.

The use of these spreader bars is particularly important when using oil pans with a notched rail design, such as Hamburger's Econo Series Oil Pans. Older cork gaskets could be easily crushed by over-tightening, so the use of spreader bars was critical to prevent this. More modern rubber, neoprene, or metal insert gaskets can withstand higher torque without crushing, but spreader bars are still beneficial to ensure an optimal seal.

Some users have noted that modern oil pans, especially imported ones, may not fit well and can leak even with the use of gaskets. In such cases, oil pan spreader bars can be a useful solution to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks.

It is recommended to use oil pan spreader bars whenever possible to achieve the best performance and prevent potential issues with oil leaks.

They help to prevent over-tightening

Oil pan spreader bars are plates that go under oil pan bolts, distributing the bolt torque. They are used to prevent over-tightening, which can crush the oil pan gasket and cause leaks.

Over-tightening was a common issue with older cork gaskets, which could be easily crushed. Modern gaskets, made from rubber, neoprene, or metal, are less susceptible to crushing. However, oil pan spreader bars can still be beneficial, especially with newer oil pans that may not fit well and are prone to leaking.

By distributing the bolt torque, oil pan spreader bars help to prevent over-tightening and reduce the risk of gasket damage. This is important because a damaged gasket can cause oil leaks, leading to costly repairs and potential engine damage.

In addition to oil pan spreader bars, thread sealers can also be used to prevent bolts from loosening, ensuring a tight seal and reducing the risk of over-tightening. It is also important to use the correct torque when tightening pan bolts to avoid damaging the gasket.

Oil pan spreader bars are a simple yet effective solution to prevent over-tightening of oil pan bolts, helping to maintain the integrity of the gasket and prevent leaks. They are especially useful for older vehicles with cork gaskets and newer vehicles with ill-fitting oil pans.

They are used to restore vehicles to their original condition

Oil pan spreader bars are used to restore vehicles to their original condition. They are designed to reinforce the oil pan and prevent leaks. This is especially important if you have an older vehicle with a cork gasket, which can be easily crushed by over-tightening the oil pan bolts. By distributing the bolt torque evenly, spreader bars help to prevent gasket damage and oil leaks.

If you're planning to restore a classic car or truck, you may need to replace the oil pan and gasket. In this case, an oil pan spreader bar kit can be a valuable addition to your restoration project. It will help ensure that your vehicle's engine is properly sealed and lubricated, preventing oil leaks and potential engine damage.

When choosing an oil pan spreader bar, it's important to select one that is compatible with your vehicle's engine and oil pan. They are typically made of steel and are designed to fit specific makes and models of vehicles. You can find spreader bars and kits for various vehicles, including Chevrolet, Ford, and Pontiac.

Additionally, spreader bars can be fixed or adjustable. Fixed spreader bars are typically used for lifting smaller objects, while adjustable spreader bars, also known as combination lifting beams, are used for larger objects. Adjustable spreader bars can be extended beyond their initial length, making them versatile for projects with varying load sizes.

When installing an oil pan spreader bar, it's important to follow the correct procedure to ensure a safe and effective restoration. This includes carefully examining the load, choosing the right spreader bar, attaching the lifting points, and conducting safety checks. By taking the time to do it right, you can help ensure that your vehicle is restored to its original condition and can perform as intended.

They are made from premium-grade materials

Oil pan spreader bars are made from premium-grade materials, ensuring that your vehicle remains in top condition. These bars are typically crafted from steel, with some products offering a black finish. The use of steel in their construction provides durability and strength, allowing the bars to effectively reinforce the oil pan and distribute torque.

Manufacturers like RESTOPARTS® and Mopar® are known for producing oil pan spreader bars and brackets made from premium-grade materials. For instance, RESTOPARTS® offers spreader bars that are designed to restore your vehicle to its original, show-quality condition. Their products are crafted from premium materials, ensuring a top-notch reproduction that delivers OE quality, look, and finish.

Mopar's oil pan brackets are also crafted from premium-grade materials, utilising the latest manufacturing technology. Their products are designed to keep your vehicle in top shape, both aesthetically and performance-wise. Mopar's commitment to quality ensures that your prized possession performs exactly as intended.

In addition to the materials used, the design and construction of oil pan spreader bars play a crucial role in their effectiveness. These bars are strategically placed under the oil pan bolts to distribute the bolt torque evenly. This even distribution helps prevent issues like over-tightening, which was a common problem with older cork gaskets.

By investing in oil pan spreader bars made from premium-grade materials, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle's oil pan is reinforced with high-quality components. This not only maintains the performance of your vehicle but also helps prevent leaks and other issues associated with subpar oil pans and gaskets.

They are available for a range of car makes and models

Oil pan spreader bars are available for a wide range of car makes and models, including both older and newer vehicles. For instance, they are available for Chevrolet, Ford, Hamburger, and Pontiac vehicles.

Chevrolet Performance offers oil pan reinforcement rails for small block Chevy engines, with part numbers NAL-12553058, NAL-12553059, and NAL-25534360. Hamburger's Performance also provides oil pan spreader bar kits for Chevy small and big block engines, with part numbers HAM-1178, HAM-1188, and HAM-1588.

For Ford vehicles, Ford Performance Parts offers oil pan reinforcement rails in black steel for various engine sizes, including 4.3L, 4.7L, 5.0L, and 5.8L. The part numbers for these kits are FMS-M-6674-302 and FMS-M-6674-351, respectively.

Additionally, RESTOPARTS manufactures oil pan spreader bars for Pontiac vehicles, sold under the part number OPG-KR20035.

Oil pan spreader bars are also available for Mopar vehicles, marketed as engine oil pan brackets. These are designed to keep vehicles in top shape, crafted from premium-grade materials, and employing the latest technology. The part numbers for these Mopar oil pan brackets include 68490046AA, 68101928AA, 53010511AA, 68451387AA, J3243116, and 05175339AA.

It is important to select the appropriate oil pan spreader bar for your specific vehicle make and model, ensuring compatibility and proper fitment.

Frequently asked questions