Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives

Thanks to the great suggestions and advice from members of CEG (In particular: Ray, Warmonger and DemonSVT), I decided to install the oil pan along with a mechanic friend of mine (without whom I would not have had access to a lift) as opposed to having the dealer perform the work. The hardest part? Getting the bolts of the y-pipe (Had to torch them in order to expand the metal a little. Is this OK?).

With respect to the dipstick and dipstick tube that one of the Ford dealers alleged that 'I had to change', well it turns out that it is not necessary:

• We noted the oil level prior to draining the pan.
  
• We then drained the oil (without removing the filter) into dry clean plastic containers.
  
• We then proceeded installing the pan and associated tasks.
  
• We then returned the oil from the plastic containers back into the engine.
  
• We then verified the oil level and noticed that about a Ã?¼ to Ã?½ litre of oil was missing. Taking into account the amount of oil that was leftover in the old pan and whatever was lost, we determined that the dipstick and its tube needed not to be replaced.
  

As a result, I returned the dipstick and dipstick tube to the dealer. Additionally, I also returned the gasket they supplied because upon opening the box that contained the oil pan, a gasket was included on the pan! A couple of more bucks saved!

However, now I've now noticed that water is leaking from where the y pipe is bolted to the cat. This only happens after I start the (cold) engine and while it remains cool. Is this normal? Did we not tighten it enough? AND now since the weather finally seems to be improving, I turned on the AC. Guess what? Only warm to coolish air and the compressor is not kicking in even when selecting DEF mode. I'm hoping it only needs some R-134a refrigerant. The car is a 1997 and have never had it refilled. I've searched the forums and have been inundated with various info on the matter.

When it rains, it indeed does pour�My wife says the gray hair I've acquired as of late, gives me that distinguished look...

Darius
1997 MTX 2.5 V6

Bump...

I would really appreciate if anyone can help me out: All I really would like to know is if I should be worried (after reinstalling the y-pipe) that water is now leaking out of the joint between the y-pipe and the catalytic converter.

Darius
97 LX, MTX, 2.5 V6 Duratech

moisture is a natural occurance, and if by "leaking out" you mean a couple of drops on a cold morning. (like you see on the tips of tailpipes, sometimes), then I wouldn't worry about anything.

If it is, like, pouring water, etc, then you might wanna look in to that one!


Ray

About the A/C problem, check your accumulator/drier. The factory installs a foam insulation around its tank. This traps moisture against the steel body and the tank develops rust which leads to pin hole leaks. It was the cause of my low charge 3 yrs ago. Also check all connections ( spring locks) for oily areas, the tell tale signs of the fittngs leaking.

Thx for the response Ray...I take it that it is quite normal. I've been paying attention around that area of the car in order to ensure that the new oil pan is not leaking.

I wouldn't say that water is pouring out, however, if I take off immediately after starting up (cold engine), I'd say about half a normal size glass of water leaks out. If I start it (cold engine) and let the car sit and run, a couple of drops max. Perhaps the last gas bar I gassed up at cut the fuel with water!

I'll keep an eye on it.

Additionally, thx for your response and advice eepals. I'll take a look at that later this week and report back.

Darius

Probably when you take off right away, it is water that has had time to accumulate overnight. When you step on the gas, it all comes out a once, as opposed to ideling. I wouldn't worry sounds normal.

With respect to the AC problem, after searching the forums, it seems that a leak in the system is certain if the compressor is not kicking in and the system does not have pressure. Can the aforementioned be considered correct?

Darius

The compressor will not kick in BECAUSE of low pressure.

Low pressure should not occur unless you purge the system, or have a leak. I wouldn't say it is CERTAIN, but I would certainly venture to say that you are correct.


Ray