BYUengineer

I recently noticed a major oil leak and was pleased to find out that a wonderfully creative mechanic thought it prudent to modify my oil return line.

Can you replace the oil return line without pulling the engine? Where might I find an oil return line? It seems like one of those parts that people would have just laying around if they ever replaced their engine. My car, by the way, is a 1973 1/2 911t.

Thank you for any help you can give me

BYUengineer

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

Hi:

Do you speak of the oil return tubes that connect the engine case to the cam towers?

If so, those can be replaced by using one of the factory collapsible ones.

markwemple

There are also aluminum collapsables available. The factory ones will rust but it is easier to get seals. The non-factory ones are also a lot cheaper and IMO look better.

BYUengineer

I'm talking about a metal line that exits from the bottom drivers side of the engine, wraps around the front of the engine and is connected to the oil tank via a rubber hose.

Thank you for both of your quick replies
Eric Bowman

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

Eric:

That line can be replaced without engine disassembly or removal. You might need to to get some things out of the way.

Its no problem, tho.

markwemple

You will need BIG wrenches for this. You can buy them at Sears or wherever. They won't be cheap but will cost less than the ones everyone sells in the Porsche catalogues. I have fount that the largest adjustable wrenche might work in a pinch but this is still $20. Also, the end at the engine block can be tough to break free so just be prepared to have some patience. Like Steve said, no pulling and no problem!

BYUengineer

That's a relief, now all I have to do is find a replacement line