How to Install an Oil Pan Gasket

This article will explain the basics of installing a new oil pan gasket on almost any vehicle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Socket driver or wrench of proper internal diameter
• Socket of proper internal diameter
• Putty knife/gasket scraper/razor or box knife
• New gasket
• Rag
• Oil drain pan
• Oil filter
• Filter wrench
• Floor jack
• Jack stand

1. Engage your vehicle's parking brake.

2. Place floor jack under the jack point closest to the oil pan, without the jack blocking your access. Set the jack stand(if you have one) under the intended jack point and lower the vehicle onto it. If you do not know where your vehicle's jack points are, look for a flat, low spot in the frame.

3. Place the oil drain pan under the oil pan's drain plug.

4. Remove the spigot using an appropriate size wrench or socket. The open end of a wrench is preferable to a socket or box end to avoid rounding off the head or stripping the threads of the plug.

5. After the oil has stopped draining from the pan, remove the oil filter using a filter wrench.

6. Beginning at one corner of the oil pan, use an appropriate socket to start loosening the bolts securing it to the block. Once you have begun one corner, move to the corner opposite it. Work your way around the pan in this manner until all of the bolts are free.

7. Remove the oil pan from the block. This may require tapping on it with a rubber mallet or piece of wood.

8. Scrape off the gasket substance using your gasket scraper, box/razor knife, or putty knife.

9. Apply a light coat of oil to the new gasket and press it to the engine block. This is important as it will help to make for a good seal and reduce the risk of leaking oil.

10. Replace the oil pan in the same way it was removed. Begin at one corner and work your way around until all bolts are tight. Usually, you will want a quarter of a turn past where they feel secure.

11. Apply a light coat of oil to the filter gasket and screw it onto the spigot.

12. Wipe off any excess oil and replace the oil pan drain plug.

13. Jack the vehicle up to remove the jack stand or(if no jack stand was used) simply lower the vehicle.

14. Refill the oil using the proper receptacle under the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• Clay kitty litter will draw oil out of concrete if any spills occur
• Dispose of used oil in the container that the new oil came in and take it to a garage
• Gasoline will clean the oil plug
• Never attempt to jack up your vehicle by placing the jack under the engine, transmission, radiator, struts, or any part other than the frame.
• Never strike the pan with anything harder, as you may damage it in the process.