It is definitely an 84, original engine. I know that its supposed to be below the alternator but all I can see is this black cylinder that looks as if you couldn't pull an oil filter out so I doubt that that is it.
That is where it is, and it sounds like you found it. Compare with a new one, AC Delco PF52, it's a bit larger than a beer can and sticks straight out of the engine horizontally, pointing at the trunk wall. PITA to get out on an automatic transmission car. Post a pic if possible and we can tell you for certain what's going on.
Pic of an 84 engine out of the car....the filter is the blue thing on the side, under the alternator like you mentioned. And yes, it is a PITA with an auto.
Edit to add....mine was blue, but could be any color. Black, white, and blue are the most common colors.
[This message has been edited by CowsPatoot (edited 08-20-2013).]
Thanks guys, that was it. It was a royal ***** to get out, spilled oil all over the drive axle, and cradle.
Yep, absolutely a pain in the butt to get out. I put aluminum foil over the exhaust pipe to divert the oil around the pipe into the pan. I used a Fram 3980 although it is not my first choice but it was sitting on the shelf in the garage. It does have rough exterior so it is not slippery or else you need some gloves to get a grip on it. Everything has to be done by touch because I could not see it.
The only thing I didn't like about the filter location was that it put oil on the engine mount. Otherwise, I really didn't have a problem with oil on anything else. I used a PF52 filter and even had the auto tranny on one of my fieros.
I had a Saturn that had the filter on the back side of the engine... that was a pain, if I remember correctly.
Originally posted by jaskispyder: I used a PF52 filter and even had the auto tranny on one of my fieros.
Long filter is required per recall on 84. Is an option for later years. Long filter just helps changing them later.
Problem changing is mainly cause by mount bracket. Stuff bracket/block area w/ rags etc help some.
------------------ Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should. (Jurassic Park)
