How to Change Oil Pan and Strainer for SR20DET

Difficulty: Moderate

In this step-by-step, you will learn how to properly remove and replace the oil pan, strainer, and gasket on an SR20DET.

Step 1: Things you will need

1/4 inch drive ratchet

3/8 inch drive ratchet

1/4 inch drive extension

11mm open ended wrench

Flat head screwdriver

Step 2: Raising the vehicle

Raise the vehicle by driving up onto ramps or jacking up the vehicle using the factory jacking points on the frame and securing with jack stands.

Always use jack stands to secure vehicle as using a jack alone is unsafe and may cause injury. Also be sure vehicle is on level ground before raising and secure with the emergency brake.

Step 3

Position an oil drain pan underneath the vehicle to catch all the oil.

Use the 14mm Socket and remove the drain bolt.

Drain oil when engine is cool to prevent injury from hot oil.

Step 4

Use the 10mm socket and extension to loosen each bolt around the oil pan.

Fully remove all the bolts.

Using the flathead screwdriver, gently separate the oil pan from the block.

If you are replacing the pan, you can hit the old pan with a rubber mallet to help loosen it.

Lower the oil pan. be careful as there will still be some excess oil in the pan.

Step 5

Use the 10mm socket and extension and remove the 7 bolts holding the shield in place.

Remove the shield.

Step 6

Remove the two bolts shown in the picture using a 12mm socket.

Using an 11mm wrench, remove the bolt on the side of the strainer bracket.

This bolt is difficult to remove- take your time.

Step 7

Remove the strainer and inspect for any damage. Replacement of strainer is not necessary unless there is damage or if the pan is severely dented.

Always change gasket on the strainer to ensure there is efficient suction.

Step 8

Replace gasket and install the 2 bolts using the 12mm socket.

Use the 11mm wrench to tighten the side bolt on the bracket.

Step 9

Install shield back in place and tighten down 7 bolts using 10mm socket.

Be sure to clean off the surface edge of the pan where the RTV gasket maker will go to ensure a clean seal.

Step 10

Clean the new pan and use ATV gasket maker (RTV Silicone) in a thick bead around the seam of the pan.

Step 11

Place the new back on and tighten the 10 bolts in a criss-cross pattern until all tight.

Let the RTV Gasket maker dry.

Don't forget to add in the correct amount of quality oil and change out your oil filter.