Tools:
- Jack and jack stands
- Oil drain pan
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Screwdriver
- Oil filter wrench
Materials:
- New oil filter
- New oil pan gasket
- Engine oil (check owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
- Degreaser
- Rags
Procedure:
1. Park your Trans Am on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Lift the front of the vehicle with the jack and place it on jack stands.
3. Use a degreaser to clean the area around the oil leak to make it easier to identify the source of the leak.
4. Locate the source of the leak. Common sources of oil leaks on the 1995 Pontiac Trans Am include the oil pan gasket, the valve cover gasket, and the oil filter.
5. If the leak is coming from the oil pan gasket, you will need to replace the gasket. To do this, first, loosen the oil drain plug and drain the oil from the engine. Then, remove the oil pan bolts and carefully remove the old oil pan gasket. Be careful not to drop any bolts or gaskets into the oil pan. Place the new oil pan gasket in place and reinstall the oil pan bolts. Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure an even seal.
6. If the leak is coming from the valve cover gasket, you will need to replace it. To do this, first remove the spark plug wires and the valve cover bolts. Then, carefully pry the old valve cover gasket off the engine block. Be careful not to damage the gasket surface. Place the new valve cover gasket in place and reinstall the valve cover bolts. Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure an even seal.
7. If the leak is coming from the oil filter, simply remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one. Be sure to tighten the new oil filter until it is snug, but do not overtighten.
8. Refill the engine with oil to the correct level.
9. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, lower the vehicle off the jack stands and you are finished.
