adsdsasdasdasda Posted Monday at 01:57 AM Share Posted Monday at 01:57 AM Hey everyone, I'm in the middle of rebuilding the L28 in my '81 280zx 2+2 and I've hit a brick wall. I'm trying to get the oil pan and the lower engine block/upper pan (the big cast aluminum piece) off, and it will not budge. I'm 100% sure I've removed all the bolts I can see, but it's sealed on there like it's welded. Here's what I've tried so far: Engine Oil Pan Separator Tool: Did a bit but not a lot. Razor Blade: I'm trying to work a razor in, but it's taking forever and barely making progress. I'm worried I'll be here for days. WD-40 : Thought that i could break up the seal/glue with it and... nothing Tap the side of the pan with a mallet to shock the seal; nothing I'm getting frustrated and don't want to start prying and gouge the mating surfaces. Am I missing something obvious? Are there hidden boltsthat I'm not seeing? What's the magic trick to breaking the seal on this RTV from hell? Any tips, tricks, or tools you've used for this specific job would be a huge help. Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zetsaz Posted 10 hours ago Share Posted 10 hours ago It should only be the bolts that hold it to the block. No extra secret hidden bolts. Have you tried tapping it with a rubber mallet? if someone used gasket adhesive on both sides it would be pretty well stuck. I had to use a rubber mallet to knock mine loose. If it's really stuck with something like permatex ultra black instead of a stock style gasket have you tried running fishing line through it? Could cut through easier than a blade without damaging the metal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewZed Posted 7 hours ago Share Posted 7 hours ago On 11/9/2025 at 5:57 PM, adsdsasdasdasda said: lower engine block/upper pan (the big cast aluminum piece) Not clear what this means. There is no "upper pan". This is a 280Z but it's the same engine. You posted Sunday so probably already got it done. Good luck. https://www.carpartsmanual.com/datsun/Z-1969-1978/engine-280z/cylinder-block Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
toolman Posted 4 hours ago Share Posted 4 hours ago Have you tried industrial Heat Gun (capable of heating the area to 200degrees)? This method usually works but be carefully not melt anything near by. Try on a small area first. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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