Installing a Deep Sump Pickup
Forget welding or hose clamping a tube extension in place, this new cut-to-size pickup eliminates any potential pitfalls.
BY BRUCE SIMURDA
Photos by Kevin Lewis

When you buy a deep sump for your air-cooled VW engine, whether it's a small 1-1/2-quart street version or super-deep 4-quart race sump, it will typically come with an extension tube to relocate the oil pickup point down to the bottom of the new sump. These pickup extensions are typically held in place with a hose clamp, but they can also be welded to the existing pickup for a more secure connection. But there is another option as well. The new Max-Flow cut-to-length oil pickup tube from CB Performance eliminates clamps and welding, with the use of an extra long 5-inch pickup tube that can be cut to fit perfectly with just about any aftermarket oil sump. No more worry about clamps falling off, or a pinhole in the weld sucking air.

The Max-Flow pickup is made with the large diameter tube found in the later dual-relief 1600cc engine cases, so it will not fit all engines (pickup diameter measures approximately 0.710-inch). Installation is simple and straightforward, although removal of the factory pickup tube can sometimes be a bit of a struggle, especially on older, well used cases. While some may come out easily, count on destroying your old tube during this process, which often requires a large pair of channel-locks to twist and turn to loosen, along with a hammer to help tap it out.

If you are using one of CB Performance's sumps, a guide is included to trim the pickup tube to the proper length. Be sure that the angle of the cut faces the rear of the vehicle, so it's facing the main source of oil under hard acceleration - the rear of the sump. (Note: the case in this article is for a mid-engine dune buggy, so the angle is facing the opposite direction of normal). For other sumps, the bottom of the pickup tube should be 1/2-inch from the sump plate, just like the stock pickup. When installing the new pickup tube in the case, be sure to apply sealant to the tube like LAT or Loc-Tite thread locker, and ensure the 6mm locking nut that holds the tube in place is secure.

At just under $17, this is one of those items that is a real no-brainer if you are designing your ultimate performance engine and want everything perfect. Unfortunately, it's not something that can be added while the engine is together, but definitely a good idea during any rebuild when you are installing a deep sump for increased oil capacity.

SEE THE PRODUCT PAGE HERE:
#1273 Cut-To-Length Pickup Tubes