So for the past month now I've been trying to drop the oil pan on my 2002 V6 3.8 Camaro, and I've not been successful in any way shape or form. I've read that the engine must be lifted, which I've done to the highest possible point, and the oil pan had room to move but STILL couldn't be fully dropped out. I've never had to do this, so as detailed as possible descriptions would help a lot. I've not dropped the k-member yet, is this a full necessity? Also, what about the y-pipe? Anything else along the way? I need to get to my crankshaft from the underside so I need a full drop & removal of the pan.

 

I have no idea about the 3.8, but on an LT1, sometimes the crank throws can cause the pan to hang up. Solution might be to turn the motor until any offending throw moves up and out of the way to clear the pan.