Whats the deal with 3x00 main caps and pan on a TDC?

[donk_316]

Anyone actually done this?

Sorry for crossposting in more than one topic. But I think I originally put it in the wrong section.

[SappySE107]

RE: Whats the deal with 3x00 main caps and pan on a TDC?

Dunno but I have a 3100 here and some DOHC blocks. As soon as I get my engine stand here, I plan to see what kind of modifications you have to do. I know the oil pan bolts don't line up but its either drill the block or hopefully, modify the pan.

[Fierobsessed]

RE: Whats the deal with 3x00 main caps and pan on a TDC?

I checked on this last week when I was in NY. 1/3rd of the bolts actually do line up, but the rest do not. you have to drill the block. This also causes problems because the seal would be trying to seal on the surface of the remaining bolt holes, and that is a large potential for a leak. Modifying the pan for the block's bolt pattern is even less practical due to the fact that most of the bolt holes that don't line up would go right through the center of a 3/16" seal that the pan uses. In other words the seal would have to be cut up and installed in sections around the bolt holes. I can't say that it's simple. But It appears feasable. Drilling the block seems almost easier. It's starting to look like a custom main cap girdle would be more practical. But the mains themselves are downright MASSIVE compared to the stock mains. We'll see.

[SappySE107]

RE: Whats the deal with 3x00 main caps and pan on a TDC?

Well, i have my engine stand here so im gonna take a look at it. Is it not even possible to use the older gasket, seal up the stock aluminum pan holes that aren't used, and drill new holes? That was the idea I was having till I get to look at it in person.

[your_I.D.]

You could always fill unused holes in block with allen set screws with red threadlocker on them.

[farmerz24]

hey guys. im trying to make a main girdle for the 3x00, dohc. it looks like it will be the same, adn it looks like the 3x caps fit the dohc. if you are doing this you will want to use the 3x pan for the side supports. the only issue is the boltholes from teh pan to the block. the 3x ones are a bigger bolt and the dohc is smaller. some line up but are off on the one side with none lining up on the other side.

i would fill all the holes with weld or something and then drill and tap new bolt holes. worth it imo as you now have a bulletproof bottom end.

so im making a girdle, it should work whether or not you have the 3x or dohc caps. the stock windage should also fit..

ill keep you guys posted. (you will also have to mill your caps flat as the girdle will have to lay flat on it (3x00 caps will require maching too)

[Fierobsessed]

One note, the windage tray from the 3.4 DOHC does not fit with the 3x00 pan... There isn't even remotly close to the clearance needed with the tray.

[Kohburn]

anyone thought of just using the 3100/3400 caps and modifying the dohc oil pan with supports that bolt to the caps?

this seams a lot easier

[farmerz24]

i dont think it will be as strong the 3.4 has a rather weak (TIN) pan where the 3100 is cast alum.

you would need the 3100 windage as it goes with the 3100 pan.

i have a few extras kicking around here if anyone needs.,

chris

[Kohburn]

i dont think it will be as strong the 3.4 has a rather weak (TIN) pan where the 3100 is cast alum.

you would need the 3100 windage as it goes with the 3100 pan.

i have a few extras kicking around here if anyone needs.,

chris

thats what the reinforcments are for :P

make it as strong as you like steal is easy to weld and will be stronger than cast aluminum