Oil Return Tubes

[Oliver Klosov]

I have a oil return tube leak. I have looked into replacement parts. It would seem there are two ways to go here. There are the solid tubes and the expandable tubes. Is there a preferred tube? It seems the expandable tubes would be easier to replace. Are the solid tubes significantly better to warrant the extra installation work? Also, how many tubes are there? I can see two. Are there more? Thanks in advance...-O.K.

[ChrisBennet]

I like the solid tubes but those are something you install when the heads are off. There are the heavy aluminum expandable tubes and thin factory style expandable tubes. I prefer the aluminum ones but I can't really back that up with experience.
-Chris

[sig_a]

Unless you remove engine, the most practical are the expandable two piece tubes. I replaced four using aluminum from Weltmeister. Easier with heat exchangers removed. Buy Syl-Glide lube from NAPA store. Liberally coat all seals and seal surfaces before attempting installation. Tough getting enough leverage in seating seals into heads and engine case when working on a creeper in a confined space. Also, you will need to purchase a circlip or snap ring pliers from Sears to lock the male and female pieces firmly together. Also mount male ends into head and female ends into the engine case. This aids in return oil flow back to the oil pump. Should take 1 hour with heat exchangers removed. There are numerous posts regarding installation. I have no leaks and heat exchangers clean of waste oil.

[Oliver Klosov]

Thanks for the help you guys. I am quite a few miles from removing the heads, or the engine, I hope... There are only 56,000 miles on the car. I now have a direction to follow now. Thanks again.