For you who've changed oil pan gaskets..

[bimmerboy12]

A question: I am getting ready to change my leaky oil pan gasket on my 88 325iC, and i was wondering if it would be possible to do so without removing the engine brace, steering rack, and control arms. Instead, could I disconnect the engine mounts and jack up the engine off the engine brace just enough to gain clearance for oil pan removal?

On a somewhat unrelated topic, can I install new strut mounts without removing the control arms etc. but instead unbolt the strut from the strut mount, and drop it down in order to get the strut mount out?

Thanks for your help guys.

Brian

[netcsk]

This is just how I did mine (minus the jack). Disconnected the motor mounts on the car side and used a hoist to lift the engine up a tid.
As far as the strut, I don't know but it doesn't sound likely.

[kenika65]

http://www.e30tech.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50084

[//MPower]

Instead, could I disconnect the engine mounts and jack up the engine off the engine brace just enough to gain clearance for oil pan removal?

Yes. Follow the guide posted above.

can I install new strut mounts without removing the control arms etc. but instead unbolt the strut from the strut mount, and drop it down in order to get the strut mount out?

Yes, correct again.