Oil Pan Gasket?

[stlwagon]

You're probably ok but you could have it dye tested to be sure. If the rear main is going, better (and cheaper) to replace everything at once.

[Phoenix69]

dye tested? how much is that to have done?

[stlwagon]

I think around $80 but mine was done as part of the entire diagnostic/repair for my rear main & OP gaskets.

[Phoenix69]

In order for the oil pan gasket to be replaced, the entire engine and transmission are not manditory to remove are they? I've heard the labor alone for that is what costs so much. Some of you have said that it would cost me a little over 200$? Is it something i can do myself?

[anovib]

Im in Oklahoma and I went to a dealership and then to the mom and pop places. looking for a good deal The cost quoted were between $350.00 - $500.00

So I did it my self and to tell you the truth.....it wasn't fun. If you have a quote of $200.00 go for it. Otherwise if you have around 6-8 hours to spare the first thing you need to do is rent a engine hoist and a big ol prybar

good luck
Bob

[Phoenix69]

so you have to remove the engine JUST TO REPLACE AN OIL PAN GASKET???

[BIG-L]

Quote from BIG-L
The engine has to be lifted out enough to get the Gasket out,since it has a so called windage tray built into the gasket

Quote from stlwagon
Looking at a couple hundred (at GM) since the engine and/or tranny have to be moved to access the pan. Not much you can do short of replacing the gasket.

Quote from anovib
Otherwise if you have around 6-8 hours to spare the first thing you need to do is rent a engine hoist and a big ol prybar

Yes, it has to be lifted out enough to remove the gasket.....~Larry~

[Phoenix69]

So Larry what would you say an average price for it would be, you had it done for around 200$, is that simply the cost of labor AFTER the engine was removed or no? What would you say is a fair price to hear from a mechanic?

[BIG-L]

Id say about 300 bucks to replace it including parts and labor and make sure they look up the TB/Technical Bulletins from GM as it states to use RTV on the gasket when replacing it....or if they do it dry it will shrink and start to leak again....~Larry~

[86TATpi]

The gasket was never the problem. The way the oil pan was cast causes the problems. There are ripples on the corners and the preform gasket/windage tray doesn't hold a very good seal. It's a nuts and bolts job, not really that difficult. I had it done in two hours. If you do it yourself do yourself a huge favor and rent or buy an engine support, not a hoist. Private message me if you would like the step by step directions and or the TSB from GM.

[Phoenix69]

Hm, any additional information would be great, i dont think i'll be doing it myself but the TSB from GM sounds good.

[86TATpi]

I need to get the papers scanned if you want the actual copy, but this is pretty much what it says.

Bulletin No.: 01-06-01-008A

Date: May, 2002

Subject:
Engine Oil Pan Leak (Seal with RTV Sealant)

Condition:
Some owners may comment on a repeat engine oil pan leak.

Cause:
The engine oil pan leak may be due to an uneven (rippled) sealing surface on the oil pan.

Correction:
Seal the leak with RTV sealant...

After that it basically tells you that the ripples were from the factory and not to replace the pan. Remove the old gasket clean the mating surfaces and apply an even 1/4" bead to both sides of the gasket and torque pan down to spec.

Hope it helps.

[Phoenix69]

hmm i see, stupid flaw

[richtazz]

I've never looked under one of these cars, but common sense dictates that if the labor for the gasket was only 2 hours, then you don't have to drop the cradle to change it.

[86TATpi]

The engine has to be supported by a support and the cradle has to be lowered for clearance. The way the front of the oil pan is shaped you don't have any room to work otherwise.