Street-Worthy? Circle Track Oil Pans Explored

A circle track oil pan is designed for racing applications, increasing oil capacity and providing cooler and cleaner oil for the engine. This can be beneficial for both racing and street engines, as it reduces windage and extends the interval between oil changes. However, the suitability of a circle track oil pan for street use depends on the specific application and how much windage is affected. While a circle track oil pan can provide performance advantages, it may not be necessary for street use, especially if the vehicle already has baffles in the factory oil pan.

Deep sump oil pans

One of the leading suppliers of deep sump oil pans is Moroso, which has been in the business since 1968. Their pans are known for their quality and performance, making them a popular choice among racers.

When considering a deep sump oil pan, it is also worth mentioning dry sump systems, which are used in both street and race applications. Dry sump systems eliminate concerns about windage and oil starvation, and they are also superior in terms of reliability. However, they are more complicated and expensive, so the decision to install one depends on the specific application and budget.

In conclusion, deep sump oil pans can provide significant benefits for both street and race car engines. They increase oil capacity, reduce windage, and help prevent oil starvation. When deciding whether to install a deep sump oil pan or a dry sump system, it is important to consider the specific requirements and constraints of the application.

Dry vs wet sump systems

When it comes to dry vs wet sump systems, there are several factors to consider, including cost, complexity, horsepower, and intended use. While dry sump systems offer superior performance in racing applications, wet sump systems are simpler and more cost-effective for everyday driving.

Dry sump systems excel in racing environments due to their ability to store excess oil in a separate tank away from the engine. This configuration provides several advantages, such as improved oil pressure and reduced oil slosh, resulting in enhanced engine reliability and performance. Additionally, dry sump systems offer the benefit of crankcase vacuum, which reduces windage and improves ring seal, ultimately boosting horsepower. However, dry sump systems are more complex and significantly more expensive than wet sump systems.

On the other hand, wet sump systems are simpler and more commonly used in stock vehicles for everyday driving. They are adequate for normal acceleration, deceleration, and cornering forces, but may struggle to maintain oil pressure under high G-forces or when the engine is modified for higher RPMs. Upgrading to a performance oil pan with better baffling and a deeper sump can help improve oil control and cooling in these situations.

When deciding between a dry or wet sump system, it's essential to consider the specific application, engine RPM, and budget. Dry sump systems are ideal for racing applications where oil control, engine performance, and horsepower gains are crucial. In contrast, wet sump systems are more suitable for everyday driving, offering adequate performance and reliability at a lower cost.

In the context of circle track racing, dry sump systems can provide a significant advantage by ensuring consistent oil pressure during high-speed cornering. The dry sump system's ability to eliminate oil slosh and lower the engine's position in the chassis improves handling and aerodynamics. However, wet sump systems can also be used in circle track racing with appropriate modifications, such as a kickout on the right side of the oil pan and relocated pickup to ensure adequate oil supply during cornering.

Oil pan capacity

The oil pan capacity of a vehicle is an important factor in ensuring optimal engine performance. While there are misconceptions that more oil is always better or that lower oil levels improve engine power, the reality is that a balance needs to be achieved.

Having too much oil in the oil pan can lead to a phenomenon known as "windage," where the oil is whipped around by the crankshaft, creating a turbulent environment in the crankcase. This can result in unnecessary strain on the engine and even cause aeration in the oil, reducing its ability to cool the engine effectively. On the other hand, having too little oil can lead to issues such as high temperatures and insufficient oil pressure, potentially causing engine damage.

Determining the correct oil pan capacity involves considering various factors, including the manufacturer's suggested level, the presence of additional oiling components like an oil cooler, and the specific requirements of the engine, such as stroke length and the need for a windage tray. It is crucial to strike a balance to maximize power and minimize the potential for engine damage.

For example, in a high-RPM engine, the oil level may need to be adjusted to ensure that the oil pickup remains submerged in oil, preventing oil starvation. Additionally, the use of a windage tray can help manage oil levels and reduce windage, but it must be properly positioned relative to the oil level.

In summary, achieving the right oil pan capacity is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity. It requires careful consideration of various factors, and adjustments may be necessary to find the optimal balance for a particular vehicle and its intended use.

Oil pan materials

The two most common materials used for oil pans are steel and aluminium. The choice of material depends on various factors, including cost, weight, thermal conductivity, and structural integrity.

Steel oil pans are generally more cost-effective than aluminium pans, as aluminium tends to be about 50% more expensive than steel. The fabrication process also affects the final price, and building off of a stock core (usually steel) is more cost-effective than using aluminium, which often requires additional components like billet rails and seals.

Aluminium oil pans offer a significant weight advantage, typically saving about one-third of the weight compared to a similar steel pan. This weight reduction can be beneficial for improving fuel efficiency and performance. However, some argue that the weight savings may be marginalised by the fact that the oil pan is located beneath the motor.

In terms of thermal conductivity, aluminium has superior heat dissipation properties, allowing it to draw more heat away from the oil. This can be advantageous for keeping the oil cooler and improving engine performance. However, aluminium becomes softer at higher temperatures, which can compromise its structural integrity if struck hard.

On the other hand, steel oil pans can withstand much higher temperatures without losing rigidity. They are more resistant to damage and are often salvageable or repairable at the track, making them a practical choice for racing applications.

In addition to steel and aluminium, composite materials are also being used in oil pan manufacturing. Composite oil pans, made from thermoplastic composites or fibre-reinforced polymers, offer several benefits, including weight reduction, improved impact resistance, and the ability to integrate multiple components. However, the adoption of composite oil pans has been slow due to the cautious nature of OEMs and the extensive validation studies required.

Ultimately, the choice of oil pan material depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the application, considering factors such as cost, weight, thermal management, and durability.

Oil pan manufacturers

Oil pans are an essential part of a vehicle's engine lubrication system, acting as a reservoir for engine oil. They are typically made from materials such as steel or aluminium, and some are designed specifically for racing or high-performance applications.

There are several oil pan manufacturers in the market, each offering unique features and benefits. For example, BBB Industries offers OE replacement oil pans that are engineered to be an exact match to the original equipment (OE) pan in terms of capacity, dimensions, and attachment points. Their pans are leak-tested, corrosion-resistant, and include reinforced anchor points for durability.

Spectra Premium is another manufacturer that produces both steel and aluminium oil pans with technological improvements for longevity. Their pans feature a unique steel drain plug insert that prevents stripped threads caused by over-tightening, ensuring the oil pan's durability.

In the realm of racing and high-performance vehicles, companies like Day Motor Sports offer a range of oil pans designed for circle track racing. These pans often have larger capacities and are designed to withstand the demands of racing environments.

Additionally, composite oil pans have been gaining traction in the market. Companies like Royal DSM and BASF are developing thermoplastic composite oil pans that offer weight reduction, improved corrosion resistance, and enhanced impact resistance compared to traditional metal pans. These composite pans are being adopted by OEMs such as Daimler AG, Ford, and Chrysler for their vehicles.

When choosing an oil pan manufacturer, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your vehicle, the quality and features offered by the manufacturer, and the intended use of the oil pan, whether it be for street use or racing applications.

Frequently asked questions