Understanding The Stock Capacity Oil Pan For 351W Engines

The stock capacity oil pan for 351W engines is a component of the lubrication system in Ford vehicles equipped with the 351W V8 engine, including the Windsor and Mustang models. It serves as a reservoir for engine oil, ensuring adequate lubrication of the engine's internal components. The oil pan is typically located at the bottom of the engine and is designed to hold a specific volume of oil, which varies depending on the vehicle model and year of manufacture. This component is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity, as it ensures that critical engine parts receive the necessary lubrication to minimize friction and wear.

Oil pan capacity for Ford 351W engines

The oil pan capacity for Ford 351W engines varies depending on the specific model and type of oil pan used. Here is a look at the different capacities for various Ford 351W engine oil pans:

Stock Capacity Oil Pans:

The stock capacity oil pan for the Ford Small Block 351W Windsor engines has different capacities depending on the year of the engine.

• The 1969-1981 Ford 351W Windsor V8 engines use a front sump pan with a stock capacity.
• Similarly, the 1967-1981 Small Block Ford 351W engines use a stock-style replacement oil pan with a gold zinc finish, indicating a similar stock capacity.
• On the other hand, the 1988-1996 Ford 351W Windsor V8 engines designed for trucks have a different stock capacity oil pan. This pan is specifically for rear sump truck applications and will not fit passenger cars with rear sump blocks.

Performance Oil Pans:

Ford 351W engines can also use performance oil pans with different capacities, offering increased oil control and capacity for specific applications.

• The Canton Racing Products 15-670 oil pan for the Ford 351W Fox Body Mustang has a 7-quart system capacity. It features a deep rear sump design, measuring 9" deep by 7" long, for improved oil control and capacity.
• The Canton Racing Products 15-680S front sump road race pan for the Ford 351W has an 8-quart system capacity. It is designed for Cobra kit cars and is made from 14-gauge steel.
• The Canton Racing Products 13-650 rear sump stock-appearing drag race pan for the Ford 351W retains the stock oil pan capacity. It is notched for 2-bolt rear main sportsman engine blocks and uses a stock pickup.

Oil pan compatibility with Ford 351W engines

When it comes to oil pan compatibility with Ford 351W engines, there are a few factors to consider. The Ford 351W engine, also known as the Windsor 351, is a V8 engine used in various Ford vehicles. The oil pan you choose needs to be compatible with the specific model and year of your Ford 351W engine.

Oil Pan Options for Ford 351W Engines

Several options are available for oil pans compatible with Ford 351W engines. Here are some examples:

• CFR Performance Oil Pan: This blue stock capacity oil pan is designed for 1969-1981 Ford 351W Windsor V8 engines. It is a front sump pan specifically for passenger cars and will not fit trucks or vans. It has positive reviews for fit and quality.
• JEGS 50262 Oil Pan: This gold zinc stock-style replacement oil pan fits 1967-1981 small block Ford 351W engines. It includes a crank scraper and a magnetic oil pan drain plug kit. It is rated 3.3 out of 5 stars by customers.
• Canton Racing Products 15-670 Oil Pan: This deep rear sump oil pan is designed for Ford 351 Windsor blocks in Fox Body Mustangs. It has a 9" deep by 7" long sump and a 7-quart system capacity. It also features a crank scraper, a slosh baffle, and a magnetic drain plug.

Other Considerations

When choosing an oil pan for your Ford 351W engine, it's important to consider the specific model and year of your vehicle. Some oil pans are designed for specific models, such as the Fox Body Mustang, while others are compatible with a range of Ford vehicles from different years. Additionally, some oil pans are designed for passenger cars, while others are specifically made for trucks or vans.

It's also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and to ensure that the oil pan is compatible with your engine's oil pump pickup. In some cases, you may need to purchase additional components, such as a specific oil pump or a separate oil pan mounting kit.

Oil pan features

Oil pans are a crucial part of a vehicle's engine lubrication system, acting as a receptacle for engine oil. They are typically made of steel or aluminium and are attached to the bottom of the engine with bolts. The oil pan holds the oil that will be circulated through the engine to lubricate, clean and cool its moving parts.

There are several important features of an oil pan. Firstly, it usually has a capacity of between four and seven quarts, depending on the engine. Secondly, it includes a drain plug, which is essential for oil changes. This drain plug can be a source of leaks if it is over-tightened or if washers are not replaced during an oil change. To prevent leaks, gaskets or seals are installed where the pan attaches to the engine block. However, these can wear out over time, allowing leaks to occur.

Some oil pans also feature a crank scraper, a slosh baffle, and a magnetic drain plug. The crank scraper helps to remove excess oil from the crankshaft, while the slosh baffle prevents the oil from sloshing around in the pan, ensuring that the oil pump always has access to oil. The magnetic drain plug attracts and holds any metallic particles in the oil, preventing them from circulating through the engine and causing damage.

Regular maintenance of the oil pan is essential to ensure it stays in good condition. This includes checking for any signs of leaking or wear during routine maintenance and oil changes.

Oil pan accessories

When it comes to oil pan accessories, there are several components that work together to ensure the effective control and management of oil in your engine. These accessories not only help maintain optimal oil levels but also contribute to improving the overall performance of your vehicle. Here's a detailed overview of some essential oil pan accessories and their functions:

Windage Trays

Windage trays are strategic components placed between the crankshaft and the oil pan. Their primary purpose is to reduce the amount of windage, which is the aeration and splashing of oil caused by the rotating crankshaft. By minimising windage, these trays help ensure that oil drains back to the sump more efficiently, resulting in reduced friction and improved horsepower.

Crank Scrapers

Crank scrapers, also known as windage trays with scrapers, are enhanced versions of windage trays. In addition to reducing windage, they feature a scraper that makes direct contact with the crankshaft. This scraper effectively removes oil from the crankshaft, further reducing oil aeration and splashing. As a result, crank scrapers contribute to increased horsepower and improved engine performance.

Oil Pump Pickups

Oil pump pickups are essential for ensuring a consistent and adequate supply of oil to the engine's lubrication system. They are typically located within the oil pan and are responsible for drawing oil from the sump and delivering it to the oil pump. Oil pump pickups come in various designs, including those with different inlet diameters, to ensure compatibility with specific engine configurations.

Oil Pan Mounting Kits

Mounting kits are crucial for securely installing an oil pan to the engine block. These kits typically include mounting bolts and studs that fasten the oil pan in place, ensuring a stable and leak-free connection.

Dipsticks

Dipsticks are simple yet vital tools for checking the oil level in your engine. They are inserted into the oil pan, allowing you to visually inspect the oil level to ensure it is within the optimal range. Dipsticks can be universal or specifically designed for particular vehicle models.

Drain Plugs and Oil Level Plug

Drain plugs are located at the bottom of the oil pan and are responsible for sealing the drain hole. They can be removed to drain used oil during an oil change. Oil level plugs, on the other hand, are used to seal the oil level hole, which is separate from the drain hole.

Oil Pan Mounting Bolts and Studs

These fasteners are specifically designed for securing the oil pan to the engine block. Oil pan mounting bolts and studs ensure a tight and secure fit, preventing leaks and ensuring the oil pan remains firmly in place during vehicle operation.

Oil Pump Accessories

Oil pump accessories include components such as oil pump drives, gears, and shafts. These accessories are crucial for the proper functioning of the oil pump, which, in turn, ensures efficient lubrication of the engine's moving parts.

SBC Rear Main Seal Adapter

The SBC rear main seal adapter is used in specific engine configurations, such as the Small Block Chevy (SBC), to adapt the oil pan to the engine's rear main seal. It ensures a proper seal, preventing oil leaks from the rear of the engine.

Weld-In Fittings and Bungs

Weld-in fittings and bungs are used when additional fittings or ports are required in the oil pan. These may include fittings for oil temperature sensors, oil feed lines, or other accessories. They are welded directly into the oil pan to create a secure and leak-free connection.

Oil pan reviews

Oil pans are essential for collecting used motor oil and preventing spills when changing your car's oil. Here are some reviews of oil pans suitable for the Ford 351W engine:

• The JEGS 50262 Stock-Style Replacement Oil Pan is a gold zinc oil pan designed for 1967-1981 Small Block Ford 351W engines. It has received positive reviews for its good quality and fit, with one reviewer giving it 5 out of 5 stars.
• The Amazon product, 1969-81 Compatible/Replacement for Ford Small Block 351W Windsor Stock Capacity Oil Pan in blue, fits 1969-1981 Ford 351W Windsor V8 engines. It has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with one reviewer praising its perfect fit and factory dark blue colour.

Now, let's look at some general oil pan reviews:

• The Capri Tools Portable Oil Drain Pan is a highly-rated product on Amazon, with 98% of reviewers giving it 4 or 5 stars. It has a 4.5-gallon capacity, solid build quality, and a spout that makes disposing of old oil easy.
• The Lumax 15 Quart Drainmaster is a sealed oil pan with a wide mouth and a mesh grid that prevents the drain plug from falling into the oil. While most users are happy with it, a few have reported leaks from the red lid area.
• The OEM Tools Low Profile Oil Drain Pan is a great option for low-riding vehicles, as it has a height of less than 3 inches. However, due to its low profile, it may not have sufficient capacity for some cars.
• The JohnDow Industries Portable Oil Drain is ideal for those with a lift in their garage, as it has an adjustable height of 48 to 67 inches and an 8-gallon capacity.
• The ATD Tools Black Drain Pan is similar to the Capri Tools pan, with a round shape, spout, and handles. It has received positive reviews for its ability to catch spills and sturdy construction.
• The Lumax Plastic Oil Drain Pan is made of tough polyethylene, which is impervious to oil and gasoline. While it has a wire loop handle, some reviewers prefer the moulded-in handles.
• The ATD Tools Heavy Duty Drain Tub has a large capacity of 30 quarts and dimensions of 33 x 22 x 8 inches. It features a lipped design to prevent spills, but users need to be careful when handling due to its heavy weight when full.
• The Matrix Concepts Oil Drain Container is unique in its white colour. While it has a flat drain surface, reviews suggest that it handles oil flow well when the vent cap is used.

Frequently asked questions