53 cavalier just won't fire

[Coach Js]

Thanks Dave. I will thoroughly inspect everything tomorrow once it's all apart.

[Bluedevil]

Fluid leaks tend to (gravity) go to the lowest point so, a pan or other gasket/seal leak may show up as a drip off the drain plugs, so eliminate that as a source before tearing things apart. I would do the copper washers as recommended previously first. Good luck.

[Coach Js]

Thank you bluedevil.

The gasket I received had shrunk from its original size. A new one should be here today. The old gasket did need to be replaced. Everything under the pan in the engine looks great.

What is the recommended torque for the oil pan bolts? I don't want to over tighten. I will be replacing the lock washers for reassembly.

[Don Shields]

According to the 1951-54 shop manual, torque specifications section, the oil pan screws are 5/16-18 and should be torqued to 15-18 foot pounds.

[Coach Js]

Thank you very much Don.

Hopefully my replacement gasket will be here tomorrow

[Aus3400]

Thank you for the information.