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Oil Gush Update!!

To: spridgets@autox.team.net
Subject: Oil Gush Update!!
Date: Thu, 4 May 2000 21:52:02 EDT
Here is where I stand on my Oil Gush problem.  I received several fine 
suggestions from the list--the one I focused mostly on was to install a 
helicoil.  Well that turned into quite an oddesey here in backwards East 
Tennessee!   I did find a 5/16" helicoil set at the local NAPA which I 
purchased and took home yesterday.  This morning I realized that the helicoil 
I had purchased was 5/16"-18 whilel the size I needed was 5/16"-24.  So back 
to the local NAPA (about 15 miles) where, of course, they HAVE NO 5/16"-24.  
The salesman called another NAPA dealer in Knoxville--another 20 mile 
drive--who confirmed that "YES" they had one.  I make a couple of local calls 
to other stores but no one has Helicoil.  So off to the NAPA story in 
Knoxville.  Got there, entered, ladies in the store could not locate the 
5/16"-24 Helicoil set.  The irresponsible JERK who manages the store did not 
eyeball the kit--he only looked on the computer.  They actually  had none.  
This cost me well over an hour of precious time and lots of driving and 
expense.  

So back home, empty handed I go.  Stop by the local hardware store in my 
little town and pick up two 5/16"-18 bolts.  My goal now is to tap the 
existing 5/16"-24 holes to 5/16"-18 size and insert the course thread bolts.  
 I do so, spread blue silicone on the threads, and insert the bolts.  They 
thread right into the holes, draw up fairly tight (I didnt want to put much 
stress on the aluminum block threads they were threaded into), and 
reinstalled the remainder of the oil pan bolts.

Put a new oil filter on, filled her with oil, degreased her underbelly, and 
fired her up.  NO LEAKS!!  Runs pretty good.

I realize this is only a stopgap measure.  I plan to find the rare and 
elusive helicoil kit that I need and do a permanent fix the next time I pull 
the engine, or if the temporary fix goes south.  Thanks for everyone's input. 
 I have my LBC to drive to the Townsend show Saturday!!!!

--David C.

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