LS Dry Sump Install - Day 3928
I’m always amazed at how long projects take me to complete. Really not sure if it is because I get distracted or because they are actually complicated. None the less…. this project is going a bit slower than expected because I am verifying everything for each step prior to moving forward. Double checking to ensure I don’t miss anything and this thing will be a bullet proof beast to hoon about with reckless abandon.
Now the engine was free from the chassis I needed to tear it down and install the new dry sump bits.
Step 1 - Removing Obsolete Parts
I needed to get the old pan and internal oil pump off the engine, prior to this step I installed some (new to me) intake and exhaust port covers. Very nice billet pieces to ensure I don’t drop anything down the air holes.
If you look closely you’ll notice we have been grinding the existing pan with California’s beautifully rough roads. Dry sump will remove this issue by raising the bottom of the pan a few inches. Yay engine safety!
More Cleaning…
I am taking full advantage of my ultrasonic part washer. Just makes things easy with a bit of Dawn soap and 5-10 minutes in a warm bath. I continue to be amazed by the results for zero work.
Below captures the progression from pulling off the harmonic balancer pulley through to getting the front parts clean and ready for their reinstallation. Few key notes during this part of the project:
When removing the harmonic balancer always gently remove it with a puller. I used a large three jaw and it smoothly came off. If its a balancer with bolt holes I would have used another style. Basically use the right tool for the job…
Always a great sign to see zero oil build up in the engine internals
When installing the new external pump I removed the OEM internal one and plugged the oil ports. I believe this block already has an internal barbel thing to direct oil correctly. I still ended up putting in plugs just for a precaution in case the barbel isn’t perfect. Don’t want to loose oil pressure ever!
General cleaning of all the parts, even those going on the shelf. Oily parts in your shop will just annoy you later.
A Week or Two Later…
I got a bit distracted with other projects, but now the dry sump pan is installed and everything is buttoned up. Now to just route oil lines all over the place. Until next time!
