Removing K20 Oil Pan: Subframe Intact

Removing the oil pan from a car without removing the subframe can be a challenging task, and it is often recommended to simply remove the engine or subframe to make the process easier. However, it is possible to remove the oil pan without removing the subframe completely by lowering the subframe and raising the engine. This process requires careful manipulation of various car components and a good amount of time and effort. It is important to note that attempting to avoid removing the engine or subframe might end up creating more work and causing additional frustration.

Lower the subframe, but not totally

To remove the oil pan without totally lowering the subframe, follow these steps:

• Set the car in service position.
• Unbolt the engine mount from the mount bracket and remove the snub mount bracket.
• Unbolt the sway bar for additional clearance.
• Raise the engine, either from the top or by removing the transmission mount and raising the transmission.
• Loosen the front bolts to the subframe, no need to remove them.
• Remove all bolts from the oil pan, including the two bolts that bolt to the rear main seal. You may need to rotate the crank to access these bolts.
• Remove the oil pan. If needed, remove the AC compressor to create more clearance, without disconnecting the AC lines.

By following these steps, you can remove the oil pan without completely dropping the subframe.

Remove the four big bolts and two smaller bolts

To remove the four big bolts and two smaller bolts, you will need to lower the subframe of your 8th Gen Civic Si. This can be done in a few simple steps.

First, locate the four big bolts on the actual subframe and the two smaller bolts inside the wheel well that attach to the subframe. Next, use a wrench or ratchet to loosen and remove these bolts. With these bolts removed, you can then proceed to lower the subframe. This can be done by adjusting the bolts at the front of the subframe. Loosening these bolts will allow you to lower the subframe enough to access and remove the oil pan.

It is important to note that you do not need to completely remove the subframe, simply lowering it will provide enough clearance to remove the oil pan. This process should not take longer than 7 minutes and will make the oil pan removal process much easier.

Raise the engine

To remove the oil pan without removing the subframe, you will need to raise the engine. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment for the job. You will need a jack, blocks of wood, and a wrench or socket set to loosen and remove bolts. Place the jack under the oil pan and use the blocks of wood to provide a secure base and protect the pan from damage.

Next, locate the engine mounts and motor mount brackets. Loosen and remove the bolts securing these components. By doing this, you will be able to raise the engine slightly, creating the necessary clearance to access and remove the oil pan.

Before raising the engine, it is important to take some precautionary measures. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any accidental electrical shorts. Also, place a drain pan or container under the oil plug to catch any residual oil that may drain from the pan.

Now, you can start raising the engine slowly and carefully. Use the jack to lift the engine until it reaches the desired height. Ensure that the engine is secure and properly supported before proceeding. Place additional blocks of wood or jack stands if needed.

With the engine raised, you can now access the oil pan. Loosen and remove the bolts securing the oil pan. Depending on your vehicle's configuration, you may need to remove or move certain components, such as the starter, distributor cap, or exhaust pipes, to gain better access to the oil pan bolts. Take note of their original positions for proper reassembly.

Once all the bolts are removed, carefully slide or lift the oil pan out. You may need to rotate the crankshaft to clear any obstructions and fully remove the pan. Be cautious not to damage any nearby components or gaskets during this process.

Finally, with the oil pan removed, you can proceed with your repairs or maintenance. Remember to handle the oil pan with care, as it may still contain residual oil. Place it on a flat surface or in a suitable container to catch any remaining oil.

By following these steps, you can successfully raise the engine and remove the oil pan without the need to remove the subframe. Always work safely and refer to vehicle-specific repair manuals or seek professional assistance if needed.

Remove the oil pan

To remove the oil pan from an 8th-gen Honda Civic Si, you will need to lower the subframe. While it is possible to do this without completely removing the subframe, you will need to take several steps to access the oil pan:

First, set the car in service position. Then, unbolt the engine mount from the mount bracket and remove the snub mount bracket. Next, unbolt the sway bar for additional clearance. After that, you will need to raise the engine. This can be done by raising the transmission from the top or by removing the transmission mount and raising it from below.

Loosen the front bolts on the subframe without removing them. These bolts are on the side that the engine mount brackets are held by, not the transmission subframe. Now, you can remove all the bolts from the oil pan, including the two bolts that bolt to the rear main seal. You may need to rotate the crank to access these bolts. With all the bolts removed, you can now remove the oil pan. If necessary, remove the AC compressor to create more clearance.

This process should take less than seven minutes to complete, and there are videos available online that provide a step-by-step guide to this procedure.

Rotate the crank for clearance

To remove the oil pan without removing the subframe, you must first set the car in service position and unbolt the engine mount from the mount bracket. Remove the snub mount bracket and unbolt the sway bar for clearance. It is also necessary to raise the engine, either from the top or by removing the transmission mount. Loosen the front bolts to the subframe, but there is no need to remove them.

Now, to rotate the crank for clearance:

If your crank has a centre bolt, you can remove the spark plugs and put the car in neutral. The crank should rotate more easily with the transmission in neutral. You can then use a ratchet wrench to rotate the crank clockwise. If there is no bolt, you can remove the belt and use a strap wrench on the balancer to turn the crank.

Another method is to remove the spark plugs, put the car in neutral, and rotate the crank by rolling it with the fan belt. If the crank doesn't have a centre bolt, this should be easier.

If you don't want to remove the spark plugs, you can put the car in fourth gear, unchock the wheels, and roll one of the tires forward by hand. With the hood up, you can use the left front tire to see when the Top Dead Centre (TDC) is reached as you turn the tire.

Finally, you can tap into the starter harness and use a remote starter button to make it easier to rotate the crank.

Frequently asked questions