How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Cadillac Escalade

If you notice a puddle of oil under the engine of your Cadillac Escalade, it may be time to replace a worn out oil pan gasket. Performing this task on most models of the Escalade is very challenging, requires removing several engine parts, and sometimes requires lifting the engine to provide access to the oil pan. However, changing the oil pan gasket in the 2002 to 2006 model with an 8.1-L motor is easier.

Instructions

1

Park the Cadillac Escalade on a level surface. Set the parking brake and block the rear wheels so they won't roll. If you don't have enough clearance to get under the vehicle, jack it up and secure it on a jack stand.

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove the front differential if your Escalade is a four-wheel drive model. Remove the starter motor, oil pan skid plate, crossbar, dipstick, oil level sensor connector, engine harness clip and the battery cable bolt and channel.

3

Put a large bucket under the oil pan and remove the oil pan plug. Let the old oil drain into the bucket. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug.

4

Scrape off the old gasket with a thin putty knife or a similar tool, being sure to remove all traces of the gasket. Wipe out the inside of the oil pan with a clean shop rag and finish cleaning the mating surface of the oil pan with solvent.

5

Install the new gasket and replace the oil pan and bolts. Reinstall the battery cable channel, oil level sensor, engine harness clip, oil level sensor, dip stick, crossbar, skid plate and starter motor. If you removed the front differential, replace it now as well.

6

Reattach the negative battery cable. If you raised the vehicle on jacks, lower it, and fill the crankcase with fresh oil. All Cadillac Escalade SUVs require approximately 6 qt. of oil. Check the level with the dipstick to be sure you've added the correct amount.

7

Pour the old oil into empty milk cartons and take it to a garage or hazardous waste disposal facility for proper disposal.