I received an oil pan that was already tapped for an oil return line. How would I test it to make sure it's not leaking? Also, how do I prepare it for installation other than a full cleaning with soap and water?

 

I don't think you can "test" it. The supercharger install instructions indicate that when you are ready to put the fitting in, you are supposed to use silicone seal in the cleaned threads. Once in, the fitting should not be moved again. You can't "test" with the sealant. You can just install the fitting for good and leave it and hope for the best. I guess about the only thing you can test, is to make sure the fitting will thread properly into the pan. If it's too loose or if it's cross-threaded, that will tell you something.

 

The pan is actually for a turbo but the fitting is welded in there I believe. There's no way I can see if its leaking?

 

I see. I can get some fluorescent dye, put it on some oil, plug the hole in the fitting, dribble the oil around the fitting on the inside of the pan with the fitting facing down and check with a black light to see if any oil oozes out. The thing is, it won't be hot oil and it won't be a continuous flow of oil.

ps. Or just re-weld it for good measure.

 

I notice on mine that apparently een w/ the silicone is not strong enough to hold the fitting in place. It becomes place w/ vibration so I'm looking to put something other than silicone, possibly weld it...

 

I hear ya. Silicone and oil just doesn't work too well. If I were to do it all over again, I'd use a high temp RTV gasket making goo. It may not keep the fitting from moving, but it's so tacky that it doesn't matter.