Will someone please tell me how difficult it is to re-seal the oil pan on my 2003 SS, 3.8 liter engine. The mechanic tells me that the engine must be lifted a tad in order to get to it. Is this correct?

 

I have not done it to mine yet but I think he is correct.

 

You will have to lift the motor to R&R the oil pan..

 

your mech is right the engine has to be lifted, haad mines done with the old engine cost me around 400 bucks...not going there again

 

I am losing oil very slowly, and I want to reseal my oil pan. I am told I have to elevate the engine slightly in order to get to the oil pan. How do I do that?

 

I assume this talk about the oil pan means you are leaking oil from the oil pan gasket? If so:
1. - Has anyone tried checking the bolts to the pan, ensure they are all properly torqued?
2. - I know oil pan gaskets sometimes fail, but it's not something I hear of often in GM's. Has it been verified you are loosing oil by the pan gasket and not another location? Such as loose drain plug, faulty drain plug seal (there is a ring that should be replaced once in a while on the drain plug), oil filter gasket is clear of debris and on tight, oil pressure switch is not leaking (happens often when that one fails), and there are a few others I might be missing.

 

You would need an engine hoist or an engine support like this. I called the factory before buying this one and they confirmed it was intended to actually be able to raise, not just support, the motor. Some people have made their own but I didn't want to go that route.

Torin Big Red Engine Support Bar — 1,100-Lb. Capacity, Model# TRE4007 | Hoisting Accessories| Northern Tool + Equipment

 

Thanks for the insight. I'll check the items you mention.