How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Chevy Avalanche

If you notice an unsightly puddle of oil under the engine of your Chevy Avalanche, you may need to replace a worn oil pan gasket. If your Chevy Avalanche has a large motor, the job is fairly straightforward. However, if the motor is smaller, it becomes more complicated. Here's how to change the oil pan gasket in a 2001 and later model Chevy Avalanche with an 8.1-L motor.

Instructions

1

Park the Avalanche on a level surface and block the rear wheels to be sure the vehicle won't roll. Detach the negative battery cable. Put a bucket under the oil pan and remove the drain plug with a socket wrench. Let the old oil drain into the bucket, and once it's finished draining, replace the drain plug.

2

Remove the front differential, if your Avalanche is equipped with a four wheel drive. Remove the starter motor, skid plate on the oil pan, crossbar, dipstick, oil level sensor connector, oil pan engine harness clip and the channel bolt on the battery cable.

3

Loosen the bolts retaining the oil pan with the socket wrench, then remove them with your fingers. Carefully take off the oil pan and clean off all traces of the old gasket.

4

Apply a sealant to the crankshaft bearing caps on the front and rear, both sides. Install a gasket in the grooves of the oil pan and replace the pan. Torque the bolts according to specifications.

5

Reinstall the battery cable bolt and channel and the oil level sensor, and torque them to specifications. Replace the dipstick. Reinstall the crossbar and skid plates, and torque them to specifications. Replace the starter motor and front differential and reattach the negative battery cable.

6

Fill the crankcase with clean oil. Chevy Avalanches require 6.5 quarts. Check with a dipstick to be sure the oil is at the fill level.

7

Funnel the old oil into an empty milk carton and dispose of it properly at a garage or at your neighborhood hazardous waste facility.