Split oil return tube!!

[billjam]

Ever seen this before? Not happy



This is a new tube on a new build 3.6.
I have been having trouble getting the engine started because the starter won't crank fast enough - but that's another story. Anyhow, after a period of cranking without compression to loosen up the engine a bit, oil started dripping (running!) from around one of the return tubes as the oil level increased in the crankcase. The split wasn't visible so it really had me stumped as to where the oil was coming from until I cut the tube out. I thought that maybe the O-ring had split.
The split is in the welded seam of the tube. At least I found it before I got the engine started.

[john walker's workshop]

parts quality has sure have gone down the tubes lately. maybe URO has started making hard parts now.

[billjam]

What a PITA trying to expand collapsible oil tubes! Is there some kind of trick to this?
With the collapsible tube assembled with its two internal O-rings, it was impossible to expand (or compress) it by hand - and yes it was lubed.
I ended up making (yet another) special tool to expand it. The M8 threaded bar slides through the sleeves as the nuts are turned. I have never read or heard of anyone having problems with these things before.

[john walker's workshop]

silicone paste and only silicone paste makes them move.

[db_cooper]

Use some hose clamps lightly tightened on the shaft of the oil return tubes to give you leverage. Pop the tubes in place and remove.

[jlex]

Ingenious installation tool... Good job!

[kodioneill]

The aircraft aluminum expandable tubes are much better.

[69911e]

JW is right (as always). Lots of paste everywhere; both O-ring and mating surface including rings in the middle of the tube. Just did mine last week slipped in by hand.