For serious engine builders and performance enthusiasts, a dry sump oil system is a critical upgrade for maximizing power and reliability. Unlike traditional wet sumps, a dry sump system uses an external reservoir to store oil, preventing oil starvation during high-G cornering, hard acceleration, and braking. This ensures a consistent supply of oil to critical engine components, reducing wear and the risk of catastrophic engine failure.
Choosing the right dry sump oil pan is essential, as it must be precisely engineered for your specific engine and application. Whether you’re building a track monster, a high-horsepower street car, or simply need a reliable replacement for your daily driver, the correct pan is the foundation of your lubrication system. This roundup covers a range of options to help you find the perfect fit for your performance goals.
The Best Dry Sump Oil Pans for Your Build
- A-Premium Lower Engine Oil Pan Sump for Toyota/Lexus 5.7L V8
- Champ Pans CP155KO-3 5 1/2″ Deep Dry Sump
- A-Premium Lower Engine Oil Pan Sump for Toyota/Lexus 2.4L
- Champ Pans CP302LT Small Block Ford 302 Comp-Series Pan
- Moroso 22178 GM LS Dry Sump Oil Pan
- Peterson Fluid Systems DSE-100 Dry Sump Oil Pan Kit
- Canton Racing 15-350 Dry Sump Oil Pan for LS Engines
- Dailey Engineering Dry Sump Oil Pan for Honda K-Series
A-Premium Lower Engine Oil Pan Sump for Toyota/Lexus 5.7L V8
This A-Premium oil pan is a direct-fit replacement designed for the robust Toyota and Lexus 5.7L V8 engines found in the Tundra, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and LX570. It is manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications, providing a reliable solution for your vehicle’s lubrication system. By replacing a worn or damaged pan, you can resolve common issues like oil leaks and low oil levels that lead to engine overheating.
The pan comes with a drain plug and corresponds to several reference part numbers, including the OEM 12102-38010. This makes it a straightforward installation for mechanics and experienced DIYers alike. It is a practical and cost-effective choice for maintaining the health and performance of your engine without the need for a full dry sump system conversion.
Champ Pans CP155KO-3 5 1/2″ Deep Dry Sump
The Champ Pans CP155KO-3 is a dedicated dry sump oil pan built for high-performance applications. With a depth of 5.5 inches, this pan is engineered to work in conjunction with an external pump and tank to provide a consistent oil supply under extreme conditions. This design is crucial for racing engines that experience high lateral G-forces, where a traditional wet sump would allow oil to slosh away from the pickup.
Constructed from durable materials, this pan is made to withstand the rigors of competitive motorsports. Its design prioritizes oil control and evacuation, helping to reduce windage and increase horsepower. This is a component for builders who require professional-grade equipment to complete their dry sump system for maximum engine output and durability.
A-Premium Lower Engine Oil Pan Sump for Toyota/Lexus 2.4L
Designed for a range of popular 2.4L engines, this A-Premium oil pan is a precise replacement for vehicles like the Toyota Camry, RAV4, Scion xB, and Lexus HS250h. It serves as a reliable component within the stock lubrication system, ensuring that oil is properly contained and circulated. Installing a new pan can be an effective fix for persistent oil leaks that are often difficult and expensive to address otherwise.
This model is constructed to match the original equipment in form and function, with correct mounting points and a pre-installed drain plug for easy oil changes. By preventing oil loss, it helps maintain proper oil pressure and protects against engine damage caused by low oil levels. It’s a solid, direct-fit solution for daily drivers requiring dependable maintenance parts.
Champ Pans CP302LT Small Block Ford 302 Comp-Series Pan
The Champ Pans CP302LT is a competition-series rear sump oil pan engineered for the Small Block Ford 302 engine. This pan is tailored for performance builds where ground clearance and optimal oil control are key considerations. The rear sump design is often necessary for fitting these powerful engines into various chassis, including classic Mustangs and hot rods.
As part of the Comp-Series, this pan features a design that helps manage oil effectively, reducing the risk of aeration and ensuring the oil pickup is consistently submerged. Its robust construction is intended for high-stress environments, making it a suitable choice for both street performance and weekend racing applications.
Moroso 22178 GM LS Dry Sump Oil Pan
Moroso is a legendary name in performance lubrication, and their 22178 dry sump oil pan is engineered specifically for GM LS engines. This pan is a cornerstone for any serious LS build aiming for maximum power and reliability on the track. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with a dry sump pump system, providing superior oil control and scavenging.
The design minimizes oil windage, which can rob horsepower, and ensures the engine receives a steady supply of oil even under the most extreme conditions. For drag racing, road racing, or any high-RPM application, this Moroso pan provides the foundation for a bulletproof lubrication system that protects your investment and unlocks consistent performance.
Peterson Fluid Systems DSE-100 Dry Sump Oil Pan Kit
Peterson Fluid Systems is renowned for its high-end dry sump solutions, and the DSE-100 kit represents a comprehensive system for a wide range of engines. This kit typically includes the oil pan itself, along with the necessary pumps, mounts, and fittings for a complete installation. It is a top-tier choice for professional race teams and builders who demand the absolute best in oiling system technology.
The system is engineered to offer exceptional oil control and cooling, contributing to overall engine stability and longevity under race conditions. By providing a complete solution, the DSE-100 kit takes the guesswork out of sourcing compatible components, ensuring all parts work in harmony for peak engine performance and protection.
Canton Racing 15-350 Dry Sump Oil Pan for LS Engines
Canton Racing Products offers the 15-350 dry sump oil pan, another excellent option for high-performance GM LS engine builds. Known for their quality and precision, Canton pans are a popular choice among professional engine builders. This pan is designed to provide the oil control needed for high-horsepower applications, preventing oil starvation during hard acceleration and cornering.
The design focuses on efficient oil scavenging and includes features to reduce windage and power loss. Its construction ensures a perfect fit on LS engine blocks, making it a reliable component in a race-winning combination. For those building an LS engine for competition, the Canton 15-350 is a proven performer.
Dailey Engineering Dry Sump Oil Pan for Honda K-Series
Dailey Engineering specializes in high-performance components, and their dry sump oil pan for Honda K-Series engines is a masterpiece of engineering. The Honda K-Series is a favorite for tuners and racers, and this pan is designed to handle the extreme RPMs and high cornering forces these engines often face. It provides the ultimate solution for oil control in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive applications.
This pan allows for a significant reduction in engine height, which is critical for maintaining hood clearance in swapped vehicles or lowered race cars. Built to the highest standards, the Dailey dry sump system ensures your high-revving K-Series engine receives uninterrupted oil flow, protecting your valvetrain and bottom end for maximum performance and reliability.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best ARE Dry Sump Oil Pan for Maximum Performance
When I’m building an engine for serious performance, especially for racing or high-G cornering, a dry sump system is non-negotiable. It’s the best way to ensure your engine gets consistent oil pressure when it needs it most. ARE (Aviaid Racing Equipment) is a legendary name in this space, but picking the right one isn’t just about grabbing the first pan you see. Here’s what I look for.
First, you need to think about capacity. This isn’t just about total oil volume; it’s about how much oil the scavenge stages can pull from the pan and how much the reservoir tank holds. A larger capacity system helps manage oil temperature and provides a buffer against consumption or leaks. For a street-and-track car, I might go with a moderate capacity. For an all-out race engine, I’m looking at the largest system that will physically fit in the chassis.
The next big consideration is the number of stages. A basic system might have a 3-stage pump: one pressure stage to feed the engine and two scavenge stages to pull oil from the pan. For most V8 applications, this is a solid start. But if you’re dealing with a high-revving engine or one that will see extreme lateral G-forces, you’ll want more scavenge stages. A 4 or 5-stage pump allows you to dedicate scavenge ports to specific areas, like each end of the pan and the valley under the intake manifold on a pushrod V8, ensuring no oil can pool anywhere it shouldn’t.
Fitment is everything. An ARE dry sump oil pan is often part of a complete system that includes the pump, tank, and lines. You must confirm it clears your specific engine block, steering linkage, front crossmember, and frame rails. This is where custom fabrication often comes into play. I always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications for my exact vehicle and engine combination. A pan designed for a Fox Body Mustang will not bolt into a C5 Corvette without a fight.
Finally, don’t forget about the supporting cast. The oil pan is just one component. You need a high-quality pump, a well-baffled tank with a solid breather system, and the correct lines and fittings. ARE often sells these as kits, which is the route I prefer for compatibility. Skimping on the tank or lines can undo all the benefits of a great pan. Getting the right ARE dry sump oil pan for maximum performance is a detailed process, but nailing these points will set your engine up for reliability when you’re pushing its limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of a dry sump system over a standard wet sump?
The biggest advantage for me is consistent oil pressure. In a wet sump, the oil sits in the pan at the bottom of the engine. During hard acceleration, braking, or cornering, that oil can slosh away from the pickup tube, causing a drop in pressure and potentially starving the engine. A dry sump uses external pumps to actively “scavenge” oil from the pan and send it to a remote tank, then another pump section feeds the engine from that tank. This eliminates oil starvation and allows for a lower engine profile since the pan is shallow.
Is a dry sump system only for all-out race cars?
Not necessarily. While they are most common in professional motorsports, they are a fantastic upgrade for any high-performance street car that sees track days. If you’re running sticky tires and pulling high lateral Gs on a road course, the investment in an ARE system can be the difference between a blown engine and a long, healthy life for your power plant. For a purely street-driven car that never sees a track, it’s probably overkill.
How difficult is the installation of an ARE dry sump system?
I won’t sugarcoat it; this is a significant job. It’s not a simple bolt-on. You’re replacing the oil pan, removing the traditional oil pump, installing a new pump drive, mounting a remote oil tank, and running a network of high-pressure lines. It often requires modifying or removing other components for clearance. This is a project for an experienced builder or a professional shop. Attempting it without the right skills and tools is a recipe for a very expensive failure.
Do I need to modify my engine block to install one of these pans?
In many cases, yes. A common modification is drilling and tapping the block for the new pump mounting hardware. You will also need to block off the passage where the original mechanical oil pump was located. The instructions provided by ARE are typically very detailed about what modifications are required for your specific engine. Always read them thoroughly before starting the job.
Can I use my existing engine accessories with a dry sump system?
This is a common issue. The dry sump pump is usually driven by a belt off the front of the crankshaft, which can interfere with your stock harmonic balancer, accessory pulleys, and even the steering pump. You often need a special balancer and may have to relocate or get new brackets for your alternator, power steering pump, and water pump. It’s a complex puzzle that needs to be planned out in advance.
What maintenance does a dry sump system require?
Maintenance is similar to a wet sump but with a few extra steps. You still need to change the oil and filter regularly. However, you also need to periodically check the drive belt for the external pump for tension and wear. It’s also crucial to inspect all the AN lines and fittings for leaks. The first time you start the engine after installation, I prime the system by disconnecting the ignition and spinning the pump with a drill to fill the lines and galleries with oil before the engine fires.