OK Like an idiot I sealed up my bottom end without installing the oil pump drive shaft. I tried dropping it in through the intake side of the engine in to the hole but it doesn't seem to squeeze through the lower hole to connect to the pump. Does this have to be installed from the oil pan side?

 

this is a very old post, but i'm in the same situation. does it have to go in from the bottom?

 

oh yeh, and the intermediate shaft usually has that redish/brown plastic piece that acts as a coupler between the pump shaft and the intermediate shaft. mine is cracked. i'm assuming this peice steadies the rotation to keep it centered?

 

Unless you are a magician you must pull the pan. FYI I never use the plastic coupler, you can buy the metal one or use the aftermarket shaft with it attached, much safer. Danny Mc