ok, I never removed any bars or steering link when I removed mine.

2001 D2

 

I drilled the bolts out on the cross member on my discovery they were seized up from rust no big deal..

 

Chickened out. Banged on the drag link with a small sledge...didn't budge. Maybe it would have if I swung harder, but didn't want to risk damage. Left the cross member in place (not drilled out, just rounded out) and reinstalled the pan with existing gasket which was only 6 mo old. When I felt around, I found one of the rubber nubs by the tranny wasn't sitting properly and could have caused the leak. Also, some of the bolts were not as tight as they should have been.

If it still leaks, I'll try drilling out bolts or swinging harder. Thanks for all the replies!

 

It's a rubber gasket. You should.be fine. Good to hear though. Next time don't be afraid of banging on that drag link. If it's in good shape you won't hurt it. I had to smake the dudes out of mine. Just make sure to thread the nut on so you don't damage the threads.

 

36 hrs and no drips...calling it good! And now I have a spare proline gasket which never hurts.

 

In the future...just cut/drill the bolts and leave the cross member off. There is no possible way a bar with those tiny bolts can be used for support. I'm under the assumption it's there so stuff doesn't flip up from the road or fall down and that's it.

 

jack the body up, but leave the wheel on the ground, this will allow you to drop the oil pan and turn it slightly so that you can remove it with the brace still in place.

 

Really? I'm going to have to try that!

 

"In the future...just cut/drill the bolts and leave the cross member off. There is no possible way a bar with those tiny bolts can be used for support. I'm under the assumption it's there so stuff doesn't flip up from the road or fall down and that's it."
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Where, when, did you get your automotive engineering degree? Are you willing to accept liability for doing such a thing? This is among the most ridiculous things I have ever heard.

 

Now that is probably a good idea.