I got a knock in my 85 300D from when I plugged the breather and lost oil.
I'm trying to do the Piston connecting rod bearings without removing the engine. To do them I have to remove the huge lower oil pan.
The huge lower oil pan consists of the main large pan and a smaller pan underneath it. By removing the smaller pan and part of the oil pump, you can reach two of the piston bearings but to reach all five, you have to remove the main pan.
The #1 piston bearing was a mess. #2 was okay. The front main bearing was okay.
The larger oil pan--can it be removed? I am asking myself that question now. My biggest concern are the front rubber crank seal and the rear seal.
My question is WILL THE SEALS HAVE AN IMPACT on THIS JOB? Also there may be some interference with the front timing gear.
My theory is that even if you unbolt the lower pan, the engine crossmember will block you, so you will have to undo the mounts and raise the engine.
You may not be able to remove the main pan completely, but you may be able to tip it or rock it to get to the rear 3 pistons. The job will be messy because oil will drip all over your face. If the seals will cooperate I will do it. The engine is basically great, believe it or not.
I wont know for another few days..