Hemi screw in oil pick up tube

[Bird 426]

What would be an acceptable sealant to lock the screw in oil pick up tube? Mine is not tight when it is in its proper location. Going another 330 degrees around isn't really going to work either, well, it could, but, the short block assembly, timing cover and water pump housing are all in. Tried a 1/2" pipe die, doesn't seem to be moving the meter much. I suppose I could try running a tap deeper, trying to be careful about shavings with grease. Still would have to clean it. JB Weld? Red Locktite?

 

[R413]

I've used a pipe thread die on the pickup, it works. I would not tap the block at any time, it's not the problem.

 

[lewtot184]

Usually I'll shorten the pipe a little until I can get it in the proper location. I used red loctite on one of mine. Regret doing that. Use 242 blue if you have to go that route.

 

[Bird 426]

The thread taper is my issue, not length. I have a limited, 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" pipe tap and die from Harbor Freight, they don't make a wrench for it. The vice doesn't want to hold the die, so looking at holding the pick up. Guess that I shouldn't be concerned about tearing the die up if they can't supply a wrench! Yes, using cutting oil. Could go to my hardware store and have them cut the threads, but they are 20 miles one way from me and I would like to creep up on it. Will let you know how it turns out. Cutting more thread is my first choice.

 

[Runcharger]

You're doing the right thing. I would worry a out splitting the block if trying to enlarge those threads.

 

[Bird 426]

This poor old Hemi has been to hell and back, wouldn't need that at this stage of the game. Just trying to make it a very sound street engine. Painting a pan right now. Will get back to the pick up after supper.

 

[PurpleBeeper]

What would be an acceptable sealant to lock the screw in oil pick up tube? Mine is not tight when it is in its proper location. Going another 330 degrees around isn't really going to work either, well, it could, but, the short block assembly, timing cover and water pump housing are all in. Tried a 1/2" pipe die, doesn't seem to be moving the meter much. I suppose I could try running a tap deeper, trying to be careful about shavings with grease. Still would have to clean it. JB Weld? Red Locktite?

I definitely like the die idea better than the tap. Pipe thread sealant works well.

 

[rickseeman]

I've had the same problem before and used the 1/2" die idea. I know you've tried that already but this time get mad and make that thing turn/cut. Maybe a buddy has a die handle that will work. You are doing the right thing, just stay after it.

 

[dadsbee]

Once they're bored and ported they never return to size !

 

[Bird 426]

Isn't working for me here at the house. I have a local Hot Rodder and his son, he has literally a machine/fab shop. Only problem is that it's Friday again! Also think that the tube has twisted a bit, the pick up is now not parallel to the bottom of the pan, we'll get next week, waiting on a part anyway!
Thanks you guys. Will get back with you next week, probably after voting.

 

[lewtot184]

Those are straight pipe threads not plumbing threads.

 

[Bird 426]

Had the neighbor over for hot dogs over an open fire tonight. Damned if he didn't have a new set of Rigid pipe thread dies and the wrench rachet. I have the pickup in now, but it's very lop sided. I need to correct it 1/4" from side to side off the floor of the pan. It's off about 1/2", now. Must have always been off some. Looking for 1/8" to 1/4" off the bottom?

 

[Bird 426]

Well, got the pickup squared to the floor of the pan, about 1/8" space.

 

[rickseeman]

And now life is good. Congratulations. I used that same tool that a farmer friend of mine had. I'm heavy in taps but I just didn't have that die.

 

[451Mopar]

Permatex 20539 Permatex Indian Head Gasket Shellac Compound | Summit Racing

 

[Bird 426]

Thank you again guys! On to the next problem!

 

[493 Mike]

Teflon tape would have fixed your problem. Just as many wraps as necessary.
Mike