Abstract: Method and apparatus for altering the downhole flow path of control fluids or the like in oil and gas wells. A downhole side pocket mandrel in a tubing string has interconnected thereto a supply conduit from the surface and a plurality of receiving conduits. Each receiving conduit is connected to a control device. A plurality of different plug assemblies is provided, each for completing within the mandrel pocket when disposed therein a different hydraulic flow path between the supply conduit and one or more receiving conduits. The plug assemblies are insertable into and retrievable from the mandrel pocket by conventional running tools. Any desired control device may thereby be controlled at the surface with a single supply conduit by selection of the proper plug assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the plug assemblies are comprised of a plurality of subplugs which may be interconnected in differing orders to form the desired plug assembly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for remotely replacing damaged guideposts attached to a subsea structure are provided. A receptacle is permanently attached to the subsea structure. The guidepost is inserted into the receptacle and is releasably connected thereto by one or more radially-oriented, spring loaded lock pins. Damaged guideposts are removed by applying an upward vertical force to the guidepost sufficient to shear the lock pin or lock pins. The upward vertical force is applied by a replacement tool capable of being remotely operated from the surface of the body of water. Following removal of the damaged guidepost, a new guidepost is inserted into the receptacle. Lock pins mounted in the new guidepost retract into the guidepost as it is being inserted. When fully inserted, the lock pins extend and engage a retaining groove formed in the receptacle thereby firmly locking the new guidepost in place.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for aligning equipment lowered from the ocean surface with a fixed subsea structure without the use of guidelines. The apparatus comprises a guide frame including primary and secondary members, a mating guide base including primary and secondary members, vertical channeling means and rotational engagement means. In the practice of the method, the frame is generally positioned above the base using known means of limited precision. Using remote means, the frame is first lowered to vertically channel the primary members into alignment, then rotated until the secondary members are engaged and finally lowered further to fully land the frame on the base.