Didn't know what to search for so here goes:

i pulled the oil pan off my new(old) motor in order to put a new gasket on and in the process i broke some plastic tube-like thing that was connected to a sensor that goes through the side of the pan. what'd i break and do i need to find another oil pan that doesnt have this piece broken off?

 

Oil level sensor.

 

can it be replaced and if so...how? or are they pressed into the oil pan or something?

 

Broke mine too it screws on in there nothin major

 

Just unscrew the old one and buy a new one. Put the pan on and then screw the new one in. Just remember to remove it first next time you pull the pan.

 

ok call me a retard but how does it unscrew? the really large "nut" on the outside of the pan? it doesnt seem to be turning for me at all

 

well if noone else will...jon you're a retard! the large nut unscrews if you actually put force on it ya pansy-***!

 

unplug it, and get a wrench. It comes right out.

 

mine was stuck in there pretty fookin good...i had to put every ounce of strength i had into the damn adjustable wrench