2.7 EcoBoost Oil Pan Upgrade. When Needed and How to Do?

One of the requested pieces of info about the Ford's 2.7L turbo engine is the upgrading of its oil pan for better reliability.

Key features and my opinion about the engine

• Production years:2015-now
• Average lifespan of 2.7L V6 EcoBoost:190,000-240,000 miles
• Fuel supply type:direct injection (later combined direct + port injection)
• Power range:315-330 hp
• Fuel efficiency:average
• Engine block material:cast-iron
• Engine reliability score:medium
• The most common problems:valvetrain problems, issues with electronics, oil consumption, power loss.

When to Upgrade Your EcoBoost Oil Pan

The oil pan is the external component of the large engine lubricating system, essential for efficient oil circulation and overall vehicle performance. It is, therefore, essential to ensure the oil pan is always in top condition by use of high-quality EcoBoost-friendly oils designed for Ford engines. Regular inspections and careful examination of the oil pan should be done regularly to detect any faults.

However, the big question is when should you upgrade your oil pan? Various factors can drive you to upgrade your oil pan among them:

1) To improve your car's performance

An EcoBoost oil pan plays a vital role in ensuring your car's engine performs efficiently by lubricating all the engine's internal components. The EcoBoost turbocharged engines are also known for increased acceleration and performance at reduced gas consumption.

Also, upgrading your EcoBoost oil pan can result in improved performance. An upgraded EcoBoost oil pan provides the driver with the thrilling power delivery of a turbo-powered engine. Besides, an automobile with an EcoBoost engine may perform better, which sounds appealing.

2) To replace a damaged or leaking oil pan

Oil pans often need to be changed in case of damage. This can be a result of an improperly tightened bolt or any other cause. A damaged oil pan will lead to an oil leak beneath the car's engine. Failure to replace the leaking oil pan can cause severe damage to your engine. Equally, this allows you to upgrade your EcoBoost oil pan and enhance your engine's performance, and avoid any further damage.

3) To enhance oil capacity

EcoBoost engines are known for their incredible performances. This performance is also influenced by the type and size of the oil pan mounted on the engine block. Upgrading to an aftermarket EcoBoost oil pan that offers a larger capacity than your current one means reduced oil temperatures even during aggressive rides.

This is smoothed by the additional fins in an upgraded EcoBoost oil pan that promote better heat dispersion and smooth oil circulation.

4) For customization and enhanced durability

Motor vehicle customization is a common phenomenon for car owners. Similarly, you should upgrade your EcoBoost oil pan to fit the new modifications. For instance, an oil pan upgrade might be necessary in case of an engine swap to ensure compatibility.

Upgrading your EcoBoost oil pan to fit modifications might be necessary for also durability. Most engine modifications are meant to enhance its performance which can affect the oil pan robustness. Also, most upgraded EcoBoost oil pans offer enhanced strength and durability compared to stock parts.

5) Scheduled maintenance

Car parts require regular maintenance, which can be captured during scheduled maintenance. The engine block is a vital car component that should always be regularly maintained by providing regular lubrication for all its moving parts.

Conducting your car's maintenance, especially on the engine block can highlight signs of wear and tear or potential damage that could necessitate an upgrade. Essentially, the EcoBoost oil pan is located at the bottom of your car, this exposure to impact damage or corrosion hence the need for an upgrade.

How Long Does It Take to Upgrade an EcoBoost Oil Pan?

An EcoBoost oil pan upgrade may not necessarily be an easy, quick-fix garage process. It can be an engaging activity that requires close attention. Following the vehicle's manual and described procedure will get the job done more efficiently. On average, gathering all essential tools and parts and lifting your car to a suitable height takes longer than the rest of the process.

Most mechanics suggest an hour to two to remove and fit the upgraded EcoBoost oil pan. The variation is mainly because some cars are designed differently, and accessing the oil pan means unmounting and later remounting parts such as the steering components. Also, the level of expertise varies from one person to the other.

Tools You'll Need for an EcoBoost Oil Pan Upgrade

We recommend having the following essential tools on hand before commencing the oil process.

• Upgraded/new EcoBoost Oil Pan
• Drive Ratchet, preferably with sockets and extensions
• A Set of Metric Wrenches
• Pan Scraper
• Basic Shop Light
• Oil Drain Pan
• Ramps, or Jack / Jack Stands
• Towels
• Replacement Oil
• Silicone or Sealant is optional only if required

Having these tools and parts ready expedites the entire upgrade process to get your Ford back on the highway.

How to Access and Upgrade the EcoBoost Oil Pan?

Accessing the oil pan can be difficult, depending on your car. Most manufacturers attach the oil pan near the engine block with small bolts that keep it intact. Therefore, removing all the timing components, including chains, guides, and the lower crank sprocket, might be essential. Some Ford models will need you to remove the motor or subframe to access the oil pan.

With the oil pan firmly bolted to its position, you must use wrenches to loosen the bolts. We recommend extra caution when handling the oil pan as it's manufactured using thin metals. The bolts can also be damaged or even end up with a bend oil pan, which is a loss if you want to resell your old oil pan.

Here are quick steps to access and upgrade your oil pump:

• Elevate Your Car

Elevate your car to an ideal height to access the engine block from beneath. An automotive ramp or floor jack and jack stands can be used. Ensure the stability of the car before crawling beneath the car.

• Drain the oil

Drain all existing oil into a collecting pan and use a towel to clean up any mess around the bolts.

• Unmount the oil pan

Untighten and remove the bolts holding the old oil pan into position. Gently unmount the old oil pan avoiding damage to any other existing parts.

• Clean the mounting block

Prep the engine block by cleaning the mounting spot. You can use any blade to scrap off old gasket deposits, then use the spray to clean it off.

• Upgrade your Oil pan

Mount your upgraded oil pan, ensuring it perfectly aligns with the block's tube seal. Torque your mounting bolts, ensuring the correct torque sequence. Refer to the manufacturer's manual for specifications if you need help with how to do it.

• Refill oil to the Upgraded EcoBoost Oil pan

Lower your car and refill the crank base to capacity with the correct viscosity for the new Upgraded EcoBoost oil pan. Remember, the higher the oil viscosity, the better, as we are looking for a possible quality fit for the engine.

• Inspect for oil leaks

Hitting the road to test the efficiency of your newly upgraded EcoBoost oil pan will probably be the first thought for motorists. However, allowing the oil to settle inside the crankcase is the safest way to approach it. This allows for sufficient time to inspect and detect potential leaks. This process should be done when the engine is on.

Quick Reference Tips to Upgrade Your EcoBoost Oil Pan

• Always remove any old gasket material on the mounting surface, ensuring it's clean. This should be done after removing the old oil pan using a scrapper or other suitable tool.
• Carefully mount the upgraded EcoBoost oil pan and follow the correct sequence to torque the bolts. Remember, a loosely torqued oil pan can result in more severe engine damage due to an oil leak.
• A liquid sealant or silicone is essential to seal gaps on the mounting block or where the engine and timing cover meet.
• Always replenish the upgraded EcoBoost oil pan with new oil with the right viscosity. It's essential to go for an oil brand that aligns with Ford's recommended specifications
• Your old EcoBoost oil pan still holds value. Therefore, ensure you carefully unmount it, avoiding damage to the bolts or pan. You can always resell it if in perfect condition.
• Test your upgraded EcoBoost oil pan to detect any potential oil leak before hitting the road.

Conclusion

An EcoBoost oil pan upgrade task is not precisely a simple job. Thankfully, this task is within reach for most car owners. All you need are the relevant tools and parts, as listed in this essay, alongside keen adherence to the vehicle manual to get the job done.

It's also crucial to note that upgrading an oil pan may necessitate extra adjustments or modifications to ensure appropriate fitting and compatibility with the engine and other components. Consultation with automotive specialists in EcoBoost oil pan upgrades who can provide essential recommendations depending on your vehicle's performance is recommended.