Distance between back of oil pan sump and subframe? 280SL

[Rick]

I was wondering if someone could measure (or close approximation) of the distance between both the left and right rear of the flange which the engine's lower oil sump pan bolts to and its distance from the subframe of a 280SL.   I am installing the engine and the distance between the pan's flange and the subframe is very close to the engine's oil sump pan (where the large aluminum pan bolts to the smalll lower stamped metal pan) and I would like to verify this to be correct.  The right side has a bit more forward/back clearance than the left side. Thanks. 

[waqas]

The measurements will depend on if the body is still resting on the subframe (through the subframe mounts). If you're doing this with a lift and the front subframe/suspension hanging, then the geometry could be different (depending on the condition of the subframe mounts).

The engine/pan geometry with respect to the subframe can be affected by:

• the condition of the motor mounts (affects the vertical distance of the engine to subframe)
• the condition of the subframe and transmission mounts in combination (affects the engine 'tilt' angle)

What I understand from your description is that the engine [as installed] is not completely in-line with the driveline of the car? (assuming subframe is exactly perpendicular to the driveline). There are many variables here. Whilst you have the engine out, make sure the subframe itself is not warped (procedure is in the BBB), and that the subframe alignment is correct (through the front leaf-springs).

[Rick]

The engine was installed with the pan attached.  The front and rear engine mounts are new.  I will be replacing the subframe mounts, but the ones currently installed do not appear to be collapsed or loose. The car is not yet fully assembled, which can possibly have some affect.  I would like to get a comparative measurement.  Thanks!

[waqas]

Sorry, it looks like I edited my post just after your reply. I added the following:

What I understand from your description is that the engine [as installed] is not completely in-line with the driveline of the car? (assuming subframe is exactly perpendicular to the driveline). There are many variables here. Whilst you have the engine out, make sure the subframe itself is not warped (procedure is in the BBB), and that the subframe alignment is correct (through the front leaf-springs).

Given the discrepancy between left and right measurements, it would seem prudent to check the geometry of the subframe itself, w.r.t. the driveline.

[Rick]

I appreciate the good suggestions on where to look.   It still would be of great help, so that I have an idea of what is normal, to get the mesurements between the left and right side of the engine oil pan and the front of the subframe, from a 280sl.  Thank you.