Sump removal

[yoshi]

I need to replace the gasket on my timing cover & sump but the mustang2 cross member is in the way. I have 2 choices, either lift the motor or lower the cross member. I haven't got the facilities to lift the engine. If I jack up the front & put àxle stands under the frame can I unbolt the cross member & lower it enough to pull the sump out?

[Big Daddy Bear]

I had to replace a rear main seal on my 68 Chevy truck with a small block V-8. I didn't have the ability to remove the engine either, so from underneath, I unbolted the motor mounts and jacked the engine up high enough to put either a 2x4 or 4x4 under the motor mounts (was a while ago, can't remember which fit), then lowered the engine down.

That allowed me to get the jack out of the way and enough working room to remove the oil pan. May be something that can help you get enough room to work, but I am not familiar with how a MII sits in relation to the engine.

[Bad Apache]

May I recommend using a high quality, one-piece rubber gasket for your "sump" or oil pan on this side of the pond? A dab of sealer at the corners of the rear main cap and timing cover corners before installation and you should be leak free for a long time.

I hate oil leaks.

[yoshi]

Got the 1 piece oil pan gasket & some "Right Stuff" in a compressed can. Do I fit timing gasket dry or put sealer on 1 side or both sides?

[yoshi]

I also have some permatex gasket sealer if its better to use that

[Rickysnickers]

Yoshi, I had to replace my oil pan gasket as well. I was able to do it w/o unbolting the engine at all. My truck has an MII style front end as well. I found there was enough room to replace the gasket.

[yoshi]

Well there isn't enough room on mine, it's all unbolted on those pictures

[yoshi]

Today I've undone all the bolts & lowered the clip enough to get the oil pan out. I found some unc's & unf's, which is best to use from clip to frame?

[Bad Apache]

Yoshi, I like to put a thin coating of Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket on both side of the timing cover gasket. I'd use fine thread bolts in those locations given a choice. However, I really doubt it makes a difference.

[yoshi]

Ok thanks, that's now my next job to fit the timing cover. Do the bolts need to be grade 8 or 12.9's on the clip?

[Bad Apache]

IMO, stronger is better for suspension fasteners. Cheap insurance.