That is exactly what I did today, while bolting the cam retainer plate in place on the 56J. With the motor in the car, and radiator removed, I had easy access to the cam by just leaning over the front bumper. With the timing cover removed, there is an inch or so of the front end the oil pan, that is open to the elements. I thought a couple of times about putting a rag over the opening, but did not bother. Later, when tightening a bolt, the 1/2" socket fell into that opening. I heard it ricochet, and thought, "this can't be good".
Eventually, I ascertained the socket had made its way to the deep area, and the situation looked pretty grim. After looking at a spare oil pan, I made a fishing tool with a magnet on the end that I could manipulate into the deep area. What a relief when the socket came out on the magnet after about three tries! Better believe I then put a rag over the opening before turning anymore bolts.
Eventually, I ascertained the socket had made its way to the deep area, and the situation looked pretty grim. After looking at a spare oil pan, I made a fishing tool with a magnet on the end that I could manipulate into the deep area. What a relief when the socket came out on the magnet after about three tries! Better believe I then put a rag over the opening before turning anymore bolts.
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