Hi all, Just got finished redoing the complete head on my 1983 Mondial Coupe QV euro spec and still can't use it because of a crack in my engine oil pan cover, right next to oil plug. Probably can get it welded but would rather find another one instead. Anybody out there know where I can get one? Preferably used since a new one, if it can be found, retails big bucks! Will I need gasket too?? thanks Wayne
It can be easily Heli Arc welded and re-machined (drill two 1/16 holes at each end of the crack), the problem comes when the pan cools, it will warp the outer flange where the gasket seals against the engine. It can be annealed and straightened, but its a labor intensive task (its important to have the flange no more than .010 out of flat). Best tip is when its welded, clamp a 1 steel bar on both sides using vice grip clamps as many as you can get around the edge, this will not prevent it from warping, but it will be less to straighten later. When you are done, its best to use a steel bung insert instead of the heli coil which is stock, this way, if you or someone else over tightens the pan plug it will not crack the pan.
