Oil Pan Compatibility: 1G Vs 3G Eclipse

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a popular car model that has gone through several generations of design, denoted by the prefixes 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G. Each generation has slight variations in its parts, including the oil pan, which is a crucial component in the engine's lubrication system. The oil pan serves as a reservoir for engine oil, and different generations of the Eclipse may have different oil pan designs due to changes in engine configuration. This raises the question of whether an oil pan from an earlier generation, such as the 1G, would fit a later generation model, like the 3G.

Differences between 1G and 2G oil pans

The differences between 1G and 2G oil pans are not immediately clear, but it seems that the main distinction is in how they mount to the block. One source states that the 1G oil pan has a 6-bolt that is flat across, while the 2G oil pan has a 7-bolt that is curved. These pans are not interchangeable.

When removing the oil pan, it is important to note that there is no factory oil pan gasket, and so only an RTV sealant should be used. The Mitsubishi brand or "Ultra Grey" from Permatex are recommended. It is also important to ensure that all the pan bolts go back into their proper holes when reattaching the oil pan, as there are some shorter ones that, if put in the wrong hole, could cause damage to the motor.

Removing a 3G oil pan

To remove a 3G oil pan, you will need to locate and remove all the screws and bolts holding the oil pan in place. There may be some very long bolts near the transmission, so be careful not to forget or break these. You can refer to the 3G service manual for more detailed instructions on oil pan removal. It is also recommended to use PB Blaster on the bolt holes to make the process easier.

Once all the bolts are removed, you may still need to use some force to separate the oil pan from the gasket and the engine block. This can be done by tapping or hammering gently on the oil pan with a flat-head screwdriver, 2x4 piece of wood, or a mallet. Be careful not to damage the oil pan or the engine block during this process.

After the oil pan is removed, it is important to clean any old gasket residue or sealant from the surfaces that will be resealed. You can use sandpaper, a file, or emery cloth sandpaper to smooth out any high spots or imperfections. This will ensure a better seal when the new oil pan is installed.

When installing the new oil pan, follow the torque pattern and use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the specified torque value. This will help prevent over-tightening, which can crack the oil pan or strip the bolt holes.

1G oil pan gasket questions

The 1G oil pan gasket is a source of frequent discussion and debate among car enthusiasts, with varying opinions on the best approach to ensure a secure seal. The Mitsubishi Eclipse, with its 4G63 engine, is a popular vehicle for modifications and performance enhancements. One common question that arises is whether to use a gasket or liquid gasket when resealing the oil pan. Some car owners prefer to use a gasket, while others opt for a liquid gasket or RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) sealant.

When removing the oil pan to inspect for aftermarket pistons, it is essential to consider the type of sealant to use. Some car enthusiasts recommend using a gasket, such as the Felpro gasket, which has been successful in preventing leaks. However, others argue that Mitsubishi did not include a gasket from the factory for a reason and suggest using RTV sealant instead. The preferred RTV sealant options include the Mitsu brand, "Ultra Grey" from Permatex, and copper RTV, which can withstand higher temperatures.

It is crucial to apply the RTV sealant correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions and ensuring proper surface preparation. The manual recommends a 4 mm bead run around the outside of the bolt holes, and it is essential to wipe off the excess sealant to improve the seal and prevent it from getting into the oil pan and causing damage. Additionally, it is important to use a torque wrench when reinstalling the oil pan bolts to avoid over-tightening, which can crack the pan or strip the bolt holes.

In conclusion, when it comes to the 1G oil pan gasket, there are various approaches to achieving a secure seal. While some prefer a gasket, others find success with liquid gaskets or RTV sealants. It is essential to follow the recommended procedures and use high-quality products to ensure a long-lasting and leak-free seal.

4G oil pan cracking

An oil pan is a crucial component of a car's engine. Bolted underneath the engine's crankshaft, the oil pan collects oil after it has been pumped through the engine. During the engine's operation, a pump moves the oil from the pan to lubricate engine parts and prevent overheating.

If the 4G oil pan cracks, it can lead to several issues. Firstly, a cracked oil pan can result in excessive oil consumption. Typically, a car should not use more than a quart of oil between oil changes. If the vehicle consumes more oil than this, it could indicate a cracked oil pan or other problems with the engine.

Another sign of a cracked 4G oil pan is an oil-soaked engine undercarriage. Even if there is no visible oil spot on the pavement, checking the bottom of the engine can reveal whether there is oil coating it, indicating a potential crack in the oil pan. Eventually, a cracked oil pan will lead to oil dripping onto the ground, as oil flows to the lowest point, which is the pan.

To repair a cracked 4G oil pan, one can follow these steps:

• Drain the oil from the pan.
• Clean the pan thoroughly with detergent or degreaser, and use coarse sandpaper to roughen the surface.
• Apply a two-part epoxy, carefully following the instructions on the package. Ensure that you mix the two epoxy adhesive tubes at an even one-to-one ratio to form a permanent bond that covers the crack. The curing process can take up to 24 hours. When applied correctly, epoxy can withstand high temperatures and extreme pressure.
• Once the bond has set, fill the engine with oil, check the dipstick to confirm the oil level, and start the car.
• Inspect underneath the vehicle to verify that the leak has stopped, and there is no fresh fluid on the ground.

It is important to address a cracked 4G oil pan promptly to prevent further complications and potential engine damage.

3G oil pan gasket options

When it comes to 3G oil pan gasket options, there are a few different approaches that you can take. Some people prefer to use a gasket, while others prefer to use a sealant. Here is a detailed and direct guide to your options:

Gasket Options:

If you decide to use a gasket, there are a few different types that you can choose from. One option is to use a cork gasket. However, some people have reported having horrible results with this type of gasket. Another option is to use a rubber gasket, such as the Fel-Pro gasket. Some people have reported success with this type of gasket, but it is important to make sure that the mating surfaces are very clean, as this type of gasket can be picky. There is also a third option, which is to use a paper gasket. However, this is not recommended, as it can cause oil starvation and engine failure if it breaks free.

Sealant Options:

If you decide to use a sealant instead of a gasket, there are a few different types that you can choose from. One option is to use a RTV (room temperature vulcanizing) sealant. This type of sealant comes in a tube and is applied to the mating surfaces of the oil pan and block. It is important to make sure that the surfaces are clean and dry before applying the RTV sealant. Another option is to use a liquid gasket, such as the one offered by Mitsubishi. This type of gasket comes in a bottle and is poured into the oil pan. It is important to make sure that you use the correct type of liquid gasket for your vehicle.

Application Techniques:

When applying a gasket or sealant, it is important to follow the correct procedure. If you are using a gasket, it is important to make sure that the mating surfaces are clean and dry. You may need to use a solvent, such as acetone or brake cleaner, to ensure that there is no oil or residue on the surfaces. If you are using a sealant, such as RTV, you will need to apply a bead of sealant to the mating surface of the oil pan and block. It is important to follow the torque specifications for the oil pan bolts and to let the sealant cure for at least 24 hours before adding oil or driving the vehicle.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

Both gaskets and sealants have their own advantages and disadvantages. Gaskets can be easier to install, but they may not seal as well as sealants. Sealants, on the other hand, can provide a better seal, but they can be messier to work with and may require more time to cure. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a gasket or sealant is a matter of personal preference and the specific needs of your vehicle.

Frequently asked questions