Due to an off-balance alternator, I must disconnect the oil filler tube where it connects to the crankcase.

Let me explain...

I own a 1990 Synchro Westie, 175k miles (not too much head leakage...) that seems to have too much vibration coming from the alternator. This vibration has manifested itself by snapping the fasteners that hold the alternator bracket to the block. Both bolts have snapped off more or less flush with the surface of the block.

Removing the alternator and bracket shows the two snapped fasteners; getting the upper of the two is easier with a right-angle drive for the drill; this hole has been drilled, and heli-coiled.

The lower of the two holes is virtually inaccessible with a drill, and the usual (too clever) techniques to loosen the broken and seized fastener have been unsuccessful And why is the lower hole not accessible? Because the oil filler tube gets in the way. (Rats!)

I suppose I have 2 alternatives; bend the tube out of the way, or remove it.

My first attempt at removal has shown that the 2 studs holding the tube in the block are also inaccessible.

I must assume SOMEONE else has had to remove this tube for some reason; what combination of tools and approaches did you use? Is this tube removable "in situ"? How else can I get a drill at the lower bolt on the alternator bracket? Arghh....

I'm stuck...

Roger Bowman - bowmanrp@ earthlink.net Live Smart. Think for Yourself. Transform the Future