oil pan replacement

Ogre39 · Jan 10, 2016

I've got a 96 GT Vert with long tube headers that I have to replace the oil pan because of rust. It has the oil level sensor on the side. I can't find a new oil pan with this sensor. All the oil pans I find are for 96 to 2004 4.6 and don't have provisions for this sensor.

I'd like to keep the oil level sensor functional. I've looked in all the local pick-n-pulls with no luck.

Anyone run across this issue?

DropTopPony · Jan 10, 2016

I remember guys saying they punched in a hole then tapped the material that was pushed into the pan.

JerZeyStangz · Jan 10, 2016

I had this issue when I damaged my oil pan a few years ago when it slipped off the jack. Someone on modular fords sold me a stock pan with the sensor. Unfortunately we have tap the pan. When I upgrade mine to 7 quart pan I'm going to do it.

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ttocs · Jan 10, 2016

I know from just looking around at pushrod pans that they came with or with out the spot in the pan. Are you wanting it with the sensor already installed?

96blak54 · Jan 11, 2016

Ive got 4 or 5 pans from trucks laying around. Ill check them out and report back. IIRC the truck pans will fit in a sn95 just fine. Might need a small clearance dent but should still fit.

mustangmurley · Jan 11, 2016

I've got a pan off my 96 GT I replaced my pan when doing my pi swap last winter. I can take a few pictures and if you're interested we can work something out. I also wanted to keep pan level sensor in mine but I was unable to locate one with the bung in the side so I usually check the oil level when I get gas just to be sure. If you want some pictures let me know.

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JerZeyStangz · Jan 12, 2016

I wish Ford didn't do away with the sensor in the 99+ cars. I really believe this is why half those 2V engines are plagued with rod bearing failure because owners didn't know they were down a couple quartz. SMH.

Ogre39 · Jan 14, 2016

I'm still looking for a pan, and thanks for all the replies so far. On Ford's parts site they have the pan with the sensor for just under $200. Rally didn't want to spend that much since I can get a new pan without the sensor provision for about $90.

The sensor is so big, that I don't think the punch/tap method would work. If anything, the best route might be to weld a nut on the inside of the pan and use the rubber op-ring gasket that comes with a new sensor.

I have no problem checking the oil, as I do this on all my vehicles at least every two weeks. I just like the thought of keeping the sensor.