TOPIC:

I've removed the exhaust and the 17 bolts in the oil pan (including the one in the oil pan elbow) and given a few bumps with a rubber mallet and the pan won't budge.

Any tips available from you guys that are better versed in the art of oil pan removal? The oil filter has not been removed.

If I remember correctly, the oil filter bolt threads into the engine block, so remove the oil filter and the pan should drop right out.

Cheers, Lauri

LareNurminen wrote: If I remember correctly, the oil filter bolt threads into the engine block, so remove the oil filter and the pan should drop right out.

Cheers, Lauri

Agreed !!

LareNurminen wrote: If I remember correctly, the oil filter bolt threads into the engine block, so remove the oil filter and the pan should drop right out.

Cheers, Lauri

Got it!! Man that gasket was holding everything together unbelievably. Ended using a sharp strong blade to pry it at both ends. Just couldn't believe the rubber mallet couldn't budge it.

Thank you Laurie for replying to my cry's for help . SO as you know, the oil filter bolt threads into the oil filter pan.

Cheers
Paul

Some photos of the oil pan. The last photo is what fell out of the oil pan when I was positioning it to take the photos







I can see where this piece of shrapnel has come from (right next to the primary chain and just below the timing chain. There was also quite a bit of small pieces of metal in the bottom of the sump (could have come from my starter motor clutch). When I get around to splitting the engine I will diagnose it further. The valve shim tool is in the photo for size reference, it was not in the oil pan