Oil Pan Replacement

Cougar Community Classic Cougar Maintenance Restoration and Repair
1

I going to have to replace the oil pan on my 70 Cougar with 351c. The previous owner had used an over sized drain plug and when I changed oil, I could not get it to stop dripping. I tried a double over sized plug and it sealed great on first installation, but when I backed it out to check for thread shavings, it stripped when I re-installed it.

I have ordered a new pan and two piece fel-pro gasket set. I don’t want any oil leaks, already tired of my trans leaks from the FMX. What gasket sealant do folks recommend and should it be applied to both surfaces, or just the engine or just pan.

Thanks – Larry

2

A thin layer of silicone engine sealer on both sides should be fine. I have used that on several engines and never had a leak.

3

Thanks for your reply and info. I just want to do it right the first time.

4

I like the Prematex gray sealer. I dries a little more rigid than RTV, but not as hard as hardening sealant. Most of the engine in my truck was assembles from the factory with the gray stuff and no gaskets, and never had a leak. I used the same when replacing my water pump on the truck and no leaks. I also used it on the Cougars entire engine when I built it, and no leaks there. I would put a thin coat on both sides of the gasket, let it “tack over” for about 5 minutes, and assmble.

If it works for Ford on the assembly line, then it works for me.

5

Thanks for the recommendation on the gray Prematex. When I was in high school, I used to use the yellow “snot” stuff from 3M. I’m not sure they even make it now.