How to Clean an Oil Galley

An oil galley is a part of the engine of a car; it is in the internal passageway located in the block of any automobile. The oil galley moves oil to important components of the vehicle such as the main bearings. Over time the galleys can become clogged and need to be cleaned. This clogging can cause the oil system of your automobile to become dry and not run smoothly.This can lead to oil starvation and kill an engine if the galley is not cleaned.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Tape measure
  • Carbon steel oil galley brush
  • Clean rag
  • Loctite
  • Locate the oil galley near the engine of the car. Refer to the owner's manual for a specific location on the galley, as it will vary depending on the manufacturer.

  • Remove the oil galley plug with an adjustable wrench. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise and remove the plug covering the hole for the galley. Set it aside for future use.

  • Measure the size of the oil galley opening with a tape measure so the proper size brush can be used. Line up a carbon steel oil galley brush to the opening and slide the brush into the hole.

  • Turn the brush in all directions and move it back and forth. Pull it out and remove any particles, metal chips and dirt on the brush. Wipe the brush off with a clean rag. Stick the brush back in and repeat the process until there is nothing on the brush when you pull it out.

  • Replace the oil galley plug and tighten it down in place. Seal it with Loctite or another thread locking adhesive. Squirt the adhesive around the oil galley plug to secure it in place.