Does the engine have to be raised in order for the oil pan to clear the crossmember,,and any other info should I know about..I have done a few in chevrolets, and this will be my first with an Olds,, Thank you for any advice. Bob

 

This is another question that comes up frequently. The first advice is to read the section on oil pan removal in the Chassis Service Manual, where you will find that not only do you need to lift the engine, by the time you are done, you'll only be six bellhousing bolt and three torque converter bolts away from simply pulling it out. You'll find pulling the motor is a MUCH easier way to do this.

 

Joe
the exhaust is NOT negligible here in MI

snapped off rusty bolts... drilling out....
all the wires for senders and ign.
fuel
trans lines
Coolant mess
Distributor R&R

You really just need to elevate the engine A LITTLE, like two inches, then turn the crank to a favorable front weight position.

Motor mounts have to be undone then removed from engine block.

Why are we after the oil pump? Timing gear bits clogging it?

 

Yeah, I grew up in MA, so I'm familiar with that problem (I remember changing the starter in my 65 442 convert in the snow outside the dorm in Cambridge, MA - I got rid of that car when the frame rusted out). The fact remains that even if you get the pan off with the engine in the car, you're then on your back with oil dripping in your face while you change the pump.

I'm too old for that to be fun anymore.

 

I agree, it can be done on your back, but who wants too. It's so much simpler on a stand.

 

*****
Previous Owner said he lost a timing gear sometime ago. I recently purchase this cutlass and have been driving it without any issues,No engine noises... It has only the fact. idiots lights which the oil light flickers now at idle,, I installed a new mechanical gauge and it reads 45lb cold and 28-30 at 50 mph and 5 lb at low idle in gear when hot at 180*..Im thinking oil pump...could it be cam bearings or main bearing ??? Thanks for any input,,, Bob

 

 

The sender for the oil light switches on at three or four pounds, so at idle five pounds is OK. Check the chassis manual, engine section.