Oiling System Basics - Tech

What it's for: For reliable performance in any of the specific applications they are designed for, a race pan can make the difference between survival and engine failure. Though some stock pans are better than others, most stock, low-capacity open-sump pans are worthless for keeping the oil from sloshing around like a frothy glass in the hands of a staggering drunk. Many stock pans lack sufficient capacity to keep from being sucked dry in performance use.

Installation: Most bolt on in place of the stocker and a matching pick-up is required. Consider available clearance to the chassis, headers, steering linkage, and-most importantly in a street application-the ground.

Price: From $100 to $500, depending on the style, performance level, and construction, with $200 being a typical average. The Milodon circle track Chevy pan (shown) features trap-door baffles and a built-in screen-type tray and runs about $290.

What it is: Oil return screen

What it does: Prevents debris from falling into the bottom end, which is particularly useful in the event of a valvetrain failure.

What it's for: The closer the engine is to being run on the edge, the better insurance it is. A simple valvetrain failure, such as a broken lash adjuster, a spit-out lash cap, or a failed rocker can turn into major destruction if the shrapnel gets caught up in the bottom end. With the screens in place and a little luck, the damage may be contained until you can pick the wreckage out of the lifter valley.

Installation: Cut the screen with snips, and glue it in place with epoxy around the edges. Make sure the bond area is dry and clear of any trace of oil.

Price: Next to nothing. Kits can be had from Moroso or Milodon, or buy a suitable mesh and bond it in.