This is on a 95 5.0 XLT 2wd extended cab.
My timing cover, oil pan gasket change is kicking my rear. Mainly because I have been pressed for time, and can only work on it in short spurts.
I have also been having trouble getting the oil pan out. I know it can be done without removing the oil pan, but I really want to clean out the inside of the oil pan. I have exhaust manifolds on both sides unbolted, but it does not drop the exhaust pipe from driver's side enough to remove the oil pan. The engine mounts have been removed, and the engine raised to the point the intake manifold is touching the firewall. The Timing cover/water pump, radiator and hoses all removed. Still pan won't even come out forward.
I could remove the intake manifold, but I'm trying to avoid it to be honest.
I forgot to mention that I wrestled my hands enough to remove the pick up tube and screen so that is not in the way.
The question I have is about the crossmember/skidplate that is under the oil pan, and is riveted to each chasis. If that was removed, then the oil pan would come out no problem.
Any problem just grinding and drilling those rivets that attach the crossmember/skid plate, then when I'm finished just reattach using bolts?

If I can do this, then it would make this job 100X easier.