67 oil pan removal

[Jek9016]

I need to drop the pan on my 67 sm block.  THe service manual says to unbolt the 2 engine mount bolts, lift the engine from the pan with a floor jack, then insert two, 2X4 blocks between the motor mount sections.  Did that, but does not appear to provide enough clearance between the crossmember.  I have the bell housing removed also.  Does anyone know how low the main caps extend below the bottom of the block into the oil pan?

Appreciate any suggestions.
 

[L78racer]

try turning the crankshaft. could be hitting front rods if at bottom of stroke.

[Mike S]

 I'm a big block guy, but does a SB pan have inner oil control shields welded into it (keep oils from sloshing out of the sump)like a BB? If so then maybe the oil pump pickup tube and strainer are hanging up on that. Just a guess. Or, if it is truly a case of not enough clearance from the cross member then try a 4x4 or two 2x4's screwed together to raise it more.

Mike

[bcmiller]

I have dropped pans before while the engine was still in the car. Also have pulled engines completely to fix issues before. In the long run, it's almost always been easier to pull the engine and do whatever needs to be done - and get a good seal on the pan - while it's on the engine stand. Good luck with whatever you decide.

[ssl78]

You may have to drop the oil pump into the pan