98 e300D-T oil pan gasket replacement
 

I have an oil leak that appears to be coming from the front of the oil pan under the alternator.

I've searched and cannot find a procedure or tips on how to pull the pan to replace the gasket. It looks like the engine needs to come up high enough so the pan can clear the subframe and steering rack. Shops are quoting 10 hrs of labor.

Does anyone know any tricks? Thanks for any help.

The engine does have to go up. Are you sure it is not the front main seal? A lot easier repair than the oil pan.

Thanks for the response, Jim. Yes- I thoroughly cleaned the engine and checked again after a few days and the leak is not originating from the main seal.

Is it as simple as removing the bolts holding the engine to its two mounts? Is there enough play in the driveshaft u-joint to allow the engine/tranny to move up enough to clear the subframe?

I've never tried to do it that way so I can't say.

What way have you done it- drop the subframe?