Oil Pick Up Tube Question

[Spec944 #143]

I noticed with my oil pan pulled that I have an "early" oil pick up tube (the diameter of the bottom is 3 1/2") and I have an 88 oil pan. I want to confirm this is not an issue? does anyone have any experience with the using an early pickup tube with a late oil pan?

[Chuck T.]

lindsey racing might know ...

[944-Spec#94]

I have always been funny about that and really perfer to run the "proper" tube to match the pan. Oiling is so critical on these cars that taking a risk with a combo that was not desinged to work together just seems more risk that I am willing to take.

 

That said I don't know how they would work mixed.

[Spec944 #143]

Does anyone have a late oil pick tube? The diameter of the pickup screen is 3 1/8" versus 31/2" on the early.

[pixrken]

Hi Todd,

 

I just dropped by EASY and John said as long as you are using the early tube with the early dipstick or a late tube and late dipstick you'll be O.K. The later oil pickup tube is longer and the reason why you need a matching longer oil dipstick but they both sit in the same relative position in the oil pan.

[944-Spec#94]

Ken I think you are mixing up dipstick tubes and dipsticks with the oil pickup tube.

[pixrken]

Joe you're right I misunderstood the question.

I'll scooter across the street to EASY and ask about the pickup tube.

[pixrken]

They said the oil pickup tube part# 944-1073206 vs 944-1073207 goes with the early/late block. They don't believe this to be a problem with your late oil pan.

[Tim Comeau]

The pan and the dipstick have to match, yes, but the pan on the 88 style has a depression in it. I assume that's because the oil pick up tube is longer and sits down deeper in the pool of oil. I'm not at the shop right now or I'd put an early and late P/U tube side by side.

[Spec944 #143]

I found a late oil pan pick up tube in my spare parts pin. so I should be good.

 

Just found out the connecting rod on the #2 piston is junk. Can I replace just one or do I have to have all 4 connecting rods replaced?

 

Is there a truth to the rumor that the rods from an 83 motor are better? I have a spare 83 in my garage-it was my original. if I have to replace all 4 connecting rods I may use the ones from that motor?

[944-Spec#94]

Just replace the one connecting rod. I don't believe their are any match set markings on them other than matching the cap to the rod.

[Big Dog]

Joe, as the MASTER tech/rules guy, I have an issue with the oil pickup tube and a modification to it. I have been led to believe that the tube has been known to crack sometimes. I had a brace added to the tube from the bolt on bracket down towards the screen to help keep the screen from vibrating back and forth as much to reduce the possibility of the tube cracking at the attachment point.

 

Since this is a performance detractor (it adds weight) and is a logevitity issue, I have been under the impression that this is OK. What do you think about this? Is it OK or does it create a "cheater" engine?

 

Big Dog

[944-Spec#94]

Jim,

From the 2009 Rules - You are covered.

 

11.9.3 A ring around the oil pickup screen may be added. The oil pickup and drain tube may be reinforced or extra supports added.

[Big Dog]

Thanks. I guess I should learn how to read.

 

Big Dog

[Tim Comeau]

......and learn how to drive, as well.......

[Big Dog]

I would, Tim, but you are afraid to race with me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Big Dog