TheSamba.com :: View topic - Another newwbie question..thanks in advance

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:22 am

Hi all, I have done a search and couldnt find the answer i need. Well i have just completed my first engine rebuild (74 westy) installed the motor and noticed that i am leaking oil from the bottom of the motor from around the oil strainer.
So here is my hopefully easy to answer question: The bolt that I put the strainer nut onto (it comes fromthe center of the oil pick up tube?) moves up and down approx 1/4 inch. Is it supposed to do that? Did i miss a connection inside the motor? Or does the spring on top of the strainer push that up?
I hope this makes some kind of sense. I will take pics at nooon today if that is required...please help!!

Man i sure hope i dont have to pull the motor again. What alearning curve.

Again thanks for the help

Doug

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:25 am

No, the central bolt/nut in the strainer shouldn't move AT ALL. Sounds to me like it was overtorqued and the case broken internally, which means a complete teardown and rebuild of the engine. If you torqued that nut to more than 9 ft/lbs, or someone before you did, it's toast.

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:40 am

VDub Tech is spot on. (like your oil leak :lol: ) sorry for the bad news, but thats the bolt you need to take EXTREME CAUTION with, as stated in every workshop manual. Bummer.

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:44 am

Not saying this is the case, but sometimes you can save a dollar or two by buying a manual. Or a hundred or two. Or a thousand or two. :wink:

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:49 am

Thanks guys..I had a feeling that was the case. so back at it i will go. Thanks for the help and the quick replies.

As i dont want to deflect blame, this is the lesson i have just learned that i should always do things alone..and always be wary the "Master Mechanic" friend. Sheesh..

Tue Oct 27, 2009 11:58 am

there are some threads here on how that can sometimes be repaired without tossing the case.

Tue Oct 27, 2009 1:08 pm

Really!! Well that is good news. I will try to search some more. If anyone knows of the thread please drop me a link. Thx