Engine sump removal on 11D Normale

[Ian GardnerParticipant]

Is it possible to remove the sump to fit a new gasket with the engine in the car and without removing the crossmember securing the torsion bars. Oil is seeping out both ends and I’m hoping it’s the sump gasket.

[BernieParticipant]

Ian,

I am aware that some have succeeded in removing and refitting a sump without completely removing the engine but I understand it does still require some degree of engine displacement.

However, the accurate replacement of the four-piece sump gasket is not easily achieved lying flat on one’s back under the car.  The two side gaskets need to be trapped between the end bearing caps and the crankcase.  Ideally, the bearing caps should be completely removed for their respective seals to be fully located and then acurately cut to length.

When the sump is refitted, it is important to keep it “square” to the crankcase and to draw it down (or up, if working from undernearth) evenly in order to ensure it engages centrally with the end cap seals without displacing them.

I would not recommend attempting this without good access and, in my opinion, that means having the engine out and at least being able to turn it on its side, if not completely upside down.

Nevertheless, as I said, I have heard of it being done ” in situ” so I shall be very interested to hear from anybody who has managed it.

B….

[David FaulknerParticipant]

James Geddes (Traction Repairs) did it on my 11BL last year when the oil pump was replaced. It was a full day job though for an experienced Traction repairer, so as Bernie says, your probably better lifting the engine out

[Peter FeredayParticipant]

I well remember doing this job about 25 years ago when I first got my car. There was about 2 inches of sludge in the sump which I duly dug out. I did manage to replace the sump gaskets and sump with the engine in place, but I can still recall the pain. Locating the gaskets correctly lying on your back was all but impossible –  I didn’t know about the bearing cap issue then. I used lots of Blue Hylomar to help get a seal, but it was always a bit weepy. However it lasted 20 years until Andy Burnett had the engine out and the job was done properly. At least with a later 11D engine the sump is alloy and a bit easier to handle lying on your back, my May 55 11D engine still had the heavier steel sump.

[Ian GardnerParticipant]

Hi.

Thanks for the replies. I think I will take your advice and put up with a slight oil drip until I need to do other jobs as well.

Thanks again

Ian

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