Recently installed Z1 oil pan leaking

[DBZinTN]

Went in to garage this morning to find about 1/2 quart of oil on the floor. After jacking and removing most of the Z1 shroud for access, I find my Z1 oil pan leaking at highlighted bolt pattern. Was fine for 3 weeks, first sign of a leak after a spirited drive on a very warm day yesterday. I torqued to recommended spec using recommended pattern, bolts were still tight.

I saw a post saying torquing to recommended Z1 spec can strip threads. I hope I didn't as that be engine block threads?! I lowered for now and threw an oil drain pan underneath as I contemplate a next move. At minimum it seems I should reinstall with a new oil pan gasket. But I'm now 2nd guessing my brand choice. Could there be a warping showing itself in that corner? Not sure if that's possible.

I may be able to get a replacement gasket out of Z1, but really wondering if I should swap for another brand. I did not like the soft hex bolts used to secure the plate (see pic). They felt like they were going to strip as I was torquing to spec.

I found this forum pretty much after I made my mod purchases. Saying that as I see many recommendations for the Dorman pan (thank you KrackaC8), and the CZP looks stellar but is $ 100+ more. The Dorman has sturdy looking 8mm? bolts securing that plate. @KrackaC8 was that plate already installed?

Hoping for suggestions.. what's a good next step? Thanks!

 

[KrackaC8]

Oh man, that sucks! I'd bet either warped pan or gasket failure. You can reuse your stock gasket if you still have it, otherwise I'd ask Z1 to send a replacement. To check your pan for warpage you'll have to remove it and lay it face down on a granite counter (or other known flat table). A machine shop can resurface it back to true, but for all that work I'd just request a replacement or refund from Z1.

On to the Dorman, I still think it's the best value on the market since it includes a gasket and magnetic drain plug. That plate you mentioned does come pre-installed. I checked the bolts prior to installation and all 3 were tight.

 

[DBZinTN]

Oh man, that sucks! I'd bet either warped pan or gasket failure. You can reuse your stock gasket if you still have it, otherwise I'd ask Z1 to send a replacement. To check your pan for warpage you'll have to remove it and lay it face down on a granite counter (or other known flat table). A machine shop can resurface it back to true, but for all that work I'd just request a replacement or refund from Z1.

On to the Dorman, I still think it's the best value on the market since it includes a gasket and magnetic drain plug. That plate you mentioned does come pre-installed. I checked the bolts prior to installation and all 3 were tight.

Thanks Kracka I'm reaching out to Z1 tomorrow. Think it could be an issue with the pan as all was perfect for 200mi, and I did recheck it a few times.

 

[KrackaC8]

Here's my Dorman:

 

[ZillaZ]

My experience with Z1 branded stuff has been hit or miss. Really only use them to buy stuff for my Z that is not Z1 branded that they sell cheaper than other vendors now.

 

[Andz]

Went in to garage this morning to find about 1/2 quart of oil on the floor. After jacking and removing most of the Z1 shroud for access, I find my Z1 oil pan leaking at highlighted bolt pattern. Was fine for 3 weeks, first sign of a leak after a spirited drive on a very warm day yesterday. I torqued to recommended spec using recommended pattern, bolts were still tight.

I saw a post saying torquing to recommended Z1 spec can strip threads. I hope I didn't as that be engine block threads?! I lowered for now and threw an oil drain pan underneath as I contemplate a next move. At minimum it seems I should reinstall with a new oil pan gasket. But I'm now 2nd guessing my brand choice. Could there be a warping showing itself in that corner? Not sure if that's possible.

I may be able to get a replacement gasket out of Z1, but really wondering if I should swap for another brand. I did not like the soft hex bolts used to secure the plate (see pic). They felt like they were going to strip as I was torquing to spec.

I found this forum pretty much after I made my mod purchases. Saying that as I see many recommendations for the Dorman pan (thank you KrackaC8), and the CZP looks stellar but is $ 100+ more. The Dorman has sturdy looking 8mm? bolts securing that plate. @KrackaC8 was that plate already installed?

Hoping for suggestions.. what's a good next step? Thanks!

I went with CZP. Less expensive at the time than Z1. 100% satisfied.