How "screwed" am I, literally.

[Tone]

The motor WILL have to lifted part of the way out to change the main oil pan. I have a spare if it gets to that - let me know.

[tom4bren]

"If the problem is the threads, a plastic washer isn't going to help. You'll need a new plug."

I don't agree. If the threads were the sole means of sealing the drain then spiral leaks would be a constant issue and teflon tape would be used to make the seal. The seal should be the washer (be it copper or nylon).

Just my 2 cents worth.

[nfpgasmask]

Hey Tone,

Have you changed out the bottom oil pan before? Looking at the bottom half of the oil pan, it looks like all the bolts are accessible, and it looks like the pan will clear that cross member. From everyone I have talked with about it, it looks like we shouldn't have to do any "extra" work, but that aside, I haven't really gotten any 100% confident info from anyone.

So, what does lifting the engine a little entail? Is this because the bottom half of the pan won't clear the cross member with enough room to get it all the way off?

I'm hoping I don't have to go this route to begin with, but just in case I do, I have a new bottom oil pan on the way.

Thanks,

Bart

The motor WILL have to lifted part of the way out to change the main oil pan. I have a spare if it gets to that - let me know.