Supra Mk3 Oil Pan Removal: Step-By-Step Guide

Removing the oil pan from a Toyota Supra MKIII can be a challenging task. While it is possible to remove the oil pan without removing the engine, it requires careful manoeuvring and a significant amount of space to work with. Some mechanics recommend lifting the engine slightly, while others suggest dropping the subframe or crossmember to access the oil pan. Removing all the bolts from the oil pan is essential, but even then, some force or prying may be necessary to separate the pan from the engine due to the resilient RTV or sealant used. When reinstalling the oil pan, it is crucial to use the correct sealant or gasket to prevent leaks. Some mechanics recommend using Toyota FIPG, while others have suggested using a rubber gasket or RTV.

Removing the oil pan with the motor still in the car

It is possible to remove the oil pan with the motor still in the car, but it is a challenging task. You will need to lift the front of the engine by about 8 to 12 inches. This can be done by jacking up the car and using a hoist to support the engine. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the oil pan with the motor still in the car:

Step 1: Prepare the car

Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place jack stands under the car to support the weight of the vehicle. You will also need a floor jack and a hoist to lift the engine. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and safety equipment before proceeding.

Step 2: Remove the necessary components

Remove the nuts that hold the subframe to the bottom of the frame rails. You may also need to remove the nuts from the strut towers and disconnect the steering shaft. Be careful not to damage any brake lines during this process. With these components removed, you should have enough room to access the oil pan bolts.

Step 3: Lift the engine

Use the floor jack to lift the engine slightly. You may need to use a hoist to support the engine and prevent it from falling. Be careful not to lift the engine too high, as this can cause damage to the vehicle.

Step 4: Remove the oil pan

With the engine lifted, you should now have enough clearance to remove the oil pan. Loosen and remove the bolts that secure the oil pan to the engine. Be careful not to drop the oil pan and cause damage to the vehicle. Lower the oil pan and set it aside.

Step 5: Clean and inspect the area

With the oil pan removed, take the opportunity to clean and inspect the area. Look for any signs of damage or leaks. If you notice any issues, now is the time to address them.

Step 6: Reinstall the oil pan

If you are just cleaning or inspecting the oil pan, you can now reinstall it. Make sure to torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. If you are replacing the oil pan, install the new one following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 7: Lower the engine and reassemble

Once the oil pan is secure, you can lower the engine back into place. Reattach any components that were removed during the process, such as the subframe and steering shaft. Double-check that all bolts are tightened securely.

Tips and considerations:

• It is recommended to have a helper during this process to assist with lifting and supporting the engine.
• Be careful not to spill oil on any hot engine components, as it may cause a fire.
• Always refer to the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.
• Some people recommend removing the engine entirely to make the process easier and to allow for additional maintenance tasks.

Using a rubber mallet to hit the sides of the pan

To remove the oil pan from your MK3 Supra, you'll need to start by removing all the bolts from the lower oil pan. Then, get a rubber mallet and hit the sides of the pan all the way around to loosen it. If the rubber mallet doesn't work, try applying some force when removing the pan, as the RTV sealant can be quite resilient. You can also use a screwdriver or pry bar to pry the pan off, but be careful not to bend the top of the pan, as this will make reinstallation more difficult.

If you're having trouble breaking the seal, try using a wedge or putty knife to slowly work it between the pan and the engine. You can also try using a solvent to loosen the RTV. Once the seal is broken, the pan should come off pretty easily.

It's important to note that there are also hidden bolts holding the upper oil pan in place, which you won't be able to see until you remove the lower pan. Make sure to remove these bolts before attempting to remove the upper pan.

Additionally, consider supporting the engine from above by using an engine brace and lifting hooks, or by placing a jack under the harmonic dampener. This will ensure that the engine doesn't shift and fall during the removal process.

Removing the oil pick-up and baffle to access upper oil pan bolts

To remove the oil pick-up and baffle to access the upper oil pan bolts of a mk3 supra, follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that you will not be able to remove the oil pan with the engine still in the car. You will need to lift the engine slightly to access the oil pan. This can be done by removing the motor mounts and lifting the engine around 4 inches, or by dropping the subframe if you can support the engine from above.

Once you have accessed the oil pan, remove all the bolts from the lower oil pan. You can then remove the lower oil pan and the hidden bolts to remove the upper oil pan. There are a few upper oil pan bolts inside the crankcase that will not be visible until you remove the lower pan. When removing the pans, do not be afraid to apply some force as the RTV sealant is very resilient.

To remove the oil pick-up and baffle, you will need to use a wrench to remove the bolts holding them in place. Be sure to clean the area and inspect the oil pick-up and baffle for any signs of damage or wear. Once removed, you will be able to access the upper oil pan bolts.

Using a screwdriver or pry bar to remove the upper oil pan

Removing the upper oil pan from your MK3 Supra can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and careful technique, it can be accomplished successfully. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove the upper oil pan:

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Ensure your MK3 Supra is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place a drain pan or container underneath the vehicle to catch any oil that may spill during the process. Locate the oil pan by looking directly behind the front bumper. The oil pan is typically made of aluminum or steel and will be positioned just underneath the engine.

Step 2: Remove the Necessary Bolts

Before attempting to remove the upper oil pan, make sure that all the bolts securing it are removed. This includes bolts located inside and outside the motor, as well as bolts that go through the pan into the transmission. There are also two 10mm nuts that secure the pan to the rear main seal housing. Double-check that all fasteners have been removed to avoid damaging the oil pan during the removal process.

Step 3: Using a Screwdriver or Pry Bar

Even with all the bolts removed, the oil pan may still be stuck due to the presence of RTV (room temperature vulcanizing) silicone. This material is used to seal the oil pan and can create a strong bond. To separate the oil pan from the engine, you can use a screwdriver or pry bar. Insert the tool between the oil pan and the engine block, applying gentle force to carefully pry the pan away. Work your way around the pan, prying a little at a time to gradually break the seal. Be cautious not to apply excessive force, as this may damage the oil pan or the engine block.

Step 4: Lower the Oil Pan

As you successfully pry the oil pan away from the engine, it will begin to lower. Carefully guide the oil pan down, ensuring that it does not get stuck or snagged on any surrounding components. Once the oil pan is completely free, set it aside in a safe place.

Step 5: Clean the Surfaces

Before installing a new oil pan or gasket, it is crucial to clean the mating surfaces of the engine block and the oil pan. Use a suitable solvent to remove any residual oil, dirt, or debris. This step is essential to ensure a proper seal when reassembling the oil pan.

Note: It is always recommended to refer to the factory service manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures. Working on your vehicle's oil pan can be complex, and it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid damage or leaks.

Using a wedge to separate the oil pan from RTV

Removing the oil pan from your MK3 Supra can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with the RTV sealant. Here are some detailed instructions on using a wedge to separate the oil pan from the RTV:

First, make sure you have removed all the screws, components, and hardware from the oil pan. This includes making sure that every last nut and bolt have been taken off. It is easy to miss some of the hardware as it can be hidden under grime or old oil. Take your time and inspect the oil pan thoroughly to ensure nothing is left attached.

Once you are confident that all the screws and components have been removed, you can begin to focus on breaking the RTV seal. The RTV sealant is a strong adhesive that creates a tight seal between the oil pan and the engine block. To separate them, you will need to carefully insert a thin, sturdy object, such as a putty knife or a gasket scraper, between the oil pan and the engine block. Gently tap the tool with a hammer to create some space and break the seal. Be cautious not to damage the oil pan or the engine block during this process. Work your way around the perimeter of the oil pan, breaking the seal in multiple places.

After breaking the RTV seal in several areas, you can start to gently pry the oil pan away from the engine block. Use a pry bar or a flat-head screwdriver for this step. Insert the tool between the oil pan and the block, and carefully apply leverage to separate them further. Work your way slowly around the entire perimeter of the oil pan, prying and wedging as you go. If needed, you can use a cheater bar to gain additional leverage. Remember to be cautious and avoid damaging the oil pan or the engine block during this process.

In some cases, you may find that the RTV sealant is extremely stubborn and difficult to break. In these situations, you can use a utility knife or a razor blade to cut through the RTV. Carefully run the blade along the RTV seal, being mindful not to scratch the surfaces of the oil pan or the engine block. Once you have cut through the RTV, you can then use the pry bar or screwdriver to continue wedging and prying the oil pan away from the block.

Finally, as you are prying and wedging the oil pan away, be mindful of the oil pan's flexibility. It may start to bend before you have completely separated it from the engine block. If this happens, stop and reassess your technique to ensure you are not applying force in a way that could damage the oil pan or the engine block. Take your time, work slowly, and use the appropriate tools to safely separate the oil pan from the RTV sealant.

Frequently asked questions