OEM 2001 Chevrolet Malibu Oil Pan

2001 Chevrolet Malibu Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the oil pan on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu?

  A: Before changing oil, first install the engine support fixture and raise the vehicle. Drain the crankcase together with removing the right front tire and wheel then the right engine splash shield. The right front antilock brake system (ABS) wheel speed sensor-harness that's connected to the suspension support must be disconnected, and the right front Ball Joint with its cotter pin and nut removed, breaking the connection with the Control Arm. Then, you can drive out the cotter pin and nut from the right outer Tie Rod detaching the rod from the Spindle, and follow then with the removal of the Spindle's lower closeout panel. Take out A/C Compressor bolts and take out the compressor, lifting it aside. Detach the transbrace engine, disconnect the oil level sensor and the Brake Line taken from frame retainers. Remove the transmission mount nuts and bolts, loosen left side cradle bolts and remove right front and rear engine cradle bolts. Your primary focus should be on taking off the Starter, Oil Pan side and Oil Pan bolts, and the Oil Pan, then the gasket. Clean the Oil Pan flanges, Oil Pan rail, front cover, rear main bearing cap, as well as threaded holes. For installation, there should be a new gasket, and sealant should be applied in that place where Oil Pan Gasket tabs that are opposite in position are installed if at all installing the rear main bearing cap, gm p/n 1052080 or equivalent. Mount and tighten the Oil Pan bolts to 25 nm (18 ft. Lbs) and the Oil Pan (side) bolts at 50 nm (37 ft. Lbs). Loosely connect the A/C Compressor spacer and upper bolts and secure them then. Mount the A/C Compressor to the engine; install right frame bolts, tighten them to 191 nm (141 ft. Lbs.); install the transmission mount bolts and nuts, but tighten them to 130 nm (96 ft. Lbs.). Reattach the right side Ball Joint and Tie Rod end to the Spindle, reconnect right front abs wheel speed sensor harness, and reinstall Brake Line to frame retainers. Reattach the engine to transmission brace, the right engine splash shield, and the right front tire and wheel assembly. At last, install the lower closeout panel, lower the vehicle, remove the engine support fixture, so fill the crankcase.