!988 911 Carrera oil return tubes

[tigerbillsbikes]

Do I have to remove the driver side exhaust (heater box and cat) to replace the oil return tubes with the expandable units?
Bill

[gregwils]

My heat exchangers were off when I replaced mine, and I was all set to tell you it could not be done then I found this thread. I think it will be a little frustrating, but probably beats trying to remove the heat exchanger nuts from the exhaust studs.

[GH85Carrera]

I can be done but is a knuckle buster.

[James Brown]

no problem removing the old ones, putting together the new tubes (use lots of lube like dow lube), installing the tube, but expanding them suckers with the exhaust in the way is a mo fo!, the clamp method seemed to work, I was going to invent a tool for that but never did. The idea was to use a small wood clamp that expands out when you squeeze the handle type thing. maybe some day

[GH85Carrera]

Yep, the biggest problem for me was getting the car at the right height and me in the proper position so I could get a good grip on the tubes to get them to pop into position. A lift would be wonderful but that is just a dream. One needs strong fingers and hands.

Good luck!

[shrtshck]

I replaced the oil return tubes on my 87 without removing the heat exchangers, but as noted by others it is a PIA. I placed gear clamps on each end of the expandable return tubes to provide a place to pry on. Other recommendation is to get a bottle of engine degreaser and clean the underside of the engine before removing the old tubes, don't want to have grit get into the engine.
Recall that I had to set the length of the expandable tubes just so before installing, long enough to set one end in place while still having just enough of the other end exposed to get a small pry bar (screw driver) on it.
Also recall that I had to use a light duty cir-clip tool, it had to be long and narrow enough to slip between the engine and the heat changer.
It can be done, don't try to rush the job, take your time and prepare to be creative.

[tigerbillsbikes]

Thanks for the info from everyone. Please, I really welcome all suggestions.
I ordered the expandable tubes from our host today.
I am getting my courage up as I read the replies to my post.
I do have a lift which is a real help. My only concern in making sure I can get
the job completed without having to get it towed for professional assistance.
I always prefer to do my own work but this is unknown territory and I do not want to wander into a mine field.
As suggested, I will buy the Dow Corning 111.
I also will study everything after receiving the new tubes and probably use the hose clamp method of expanding the tubes to lock the seals into place.
Again, thanks for all the posts. It has been a great "kick in the pants" for me to be confident enough to move forward with this project.
Bill

[James Brown]

remember, snap ring first then O rings then the other half then the end O rings. Many have gotten them on only to forget the snap ring, not fun