Oil pan repair
 

I found out today that my trusty '90 300SE has a crack in the oil pan. My tech said it'd cost about $400. I think I might tackle this one myself.

Has anyone ever done this? Do I need a hoist to lift the engine up or can I lift it with a jack? If so, where do I place the jack? Do I need to disconnect the exhaust? Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

I've done this on a 300E. You will definitely need an engine hoist. If your tech is really willing to do it for $400 you better take it.

Vin

Bill,

I was planning on having it welded and the tech was too. He said to jack it up at the rear of the engine at the tranny. I have to spend too much more on it, I'm looking at a '90 300D w/108K on it.

Do you have any opinions on these?

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'90 300D w/108K on it.
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That would be a very cool car if it is on good consition.

The 5-cylinder diesel engine used in that car is good.

In that case, it's worth doing it yourself. All you need is to rent or borrow an engine hoist.
BTW, jacking the rear won't work. You don't have enough clearance at the top (firewall).

Vin

Bill,

I went and looked at the 300D today. It's a project car. Paint on the hood is a little faded, the odo has been out for five years so who knows how many miles. There are several leaks, steering box, diff, trans pan and it need a flex disk. What really scared me was the tranny slipped a little on the first and second shift. From what I know, the slipping on the first shift can be easily solved, but the second shift indicates a big problem.

I told them I'd give them $3500 for it, they want to see if they can wholesale it for $4500. You are right, it did drive well, not quite like my 300SE, but very nice. I bet they won't get $4500 for it.

Bill