louisville88

I have a 2004 TL and just found out I need to replace the oil pan. The threads inside are stripped. I have tried a new oem plug & crush gasket etc. Its been confirmed the inner threads are stripped.

I have the new oem oil pan here and I am going to attempt to tackle installing it this weekend. Is it a pain to do this? How long do you think it will take? Is there anything I should be aware of? Or any advice?
Has anyone else done this before on an 04 TL?

Thanks for any help!

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Before replaceing the pan, I'd try and repair the hole with an oversized self tapping plug, or an insert:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvmL0pEphQI

To replace the pan:
Remove splash shield
Remove undercover
Remove exhaust pipe
Remove torque converter cover and the 2 bolts securing the trans
Remove pan bolts

Good luck

louisville88

I really want to be able to get normal oil changes at service locations without worrying about remember to use special plugs - besides sometimes my wife drives this car and gets oil changed.

Would you consider this a major repair? I am starting to second guess my decision to attempt this.

Thanks for the reply.

dondon23

Absolutely try something other than replacing the oil pan as your initial repair. A self tapping plug will cut new threads into currently cross threaded hole. After that is complete you can go anywhere for a oil change. Be sure if you go that route be sure to add a couple quarts of oil then drain to remove any possible shavings. If you don't feel comfortable trying this you shouldn't be trying to replace an oil pan.

louisville88

BTW Dealer quoted $250 for labor. Maybe Ill just take it there? =)

nfnsquared

First of all, why is it stripped? Did an oil change shop or the dealer do that or did you? If it was a shop, have you tried to get them to fix it?

Here's the service manual scans. I'd go the aforementioned route:

RACINGHART03

iTrader: (2)

Its not hard to do. I do them all the time for the same reason. I do not trust helicoils. That dealer quote is pretty reasonable. I would jump on it.

nfnsquared

Did the dealer quote include all parts (i.e. exhaust gaskets, sealer, oil, etc.), or just labor?

Food for thought, any mom and pop shop with a lift can do this and will probably charge 1/2 to 3/4 of dealer's cost.

louisville88

Thanks for the help everyone.

Just an FYI dealer did this today. Price was $250 labor and $39 for oil change. I got the OEM Oil pan online for $99.
Total cost about $400.

nfnsquared

All's well that ends well. No substitute for peace of mind!