I'm new here, neat site, lots of good stuff, glad to see more and more people apreciate these cars as much as i do... I have a 71 GT comet 302 and have had it now for two years. The oil pan is starting to look iffy and I would like to replace it. Have mechanical ability, anything unusual to know (raise engine etc.), just curious. Don't want to get caught on the road in bad situation. I only drive the comet a couple thousand miles a year. /thanks for the help.
You can either remove the 'belly bar' under the engine and get to it, or you can raise the engine. If you raise the engine, you have to squeeze your hands in between the engine and pan and take the oil pump down in order to get the pan out. I did it that way, but recommend just removing the bar. I didn't know any better when I did mine.
Thanks, I think I will take a look and see what is involved in getting "belly bar" out, I remember what it looks like, it connects the left and right front lower hub assy. (vague...I know)... At some point, I will post some pics, I have all the original paperwork to the Comet. It is not perfect, but a nice driver. My parents bought a Mav from the dealership that I work at!
NOPE!!! it connects from...frame rail to frame rail...one bolt on each end. also: the pan will only fit...Mav/Comets to the board.. ...Frank...:Handshake
Drop the belly bar...Disconnect idler arm from center steering link.Steering link will now drop far enough to clear the pan without pulling the pump/pickup.You may have to tug on the center link to get it to move enough but...it will.
Cool! Thanks for all the insight, I have been lucky enough that for the last two years, changing the oil and a few minor odds and ends is all the Comet has needed. It is a blast to drive! Gonna get working on it this weekend!
Shop Manual If you're going to work on your car, and you don't have a lot of experience, the Ford Shop Manuals will be a great help. Don't know if it answers your question -- its not big on alternative methods -- but you'll find it a good investment. Five volume set is available new or used from many sources.
