Sump Gasket Replacement

[MP]

My Series 2, 16v ie is leaking oil from the sump gasket at quite a high rate and needs a gasket replacement.

My question is whether or not the sump can be lowered enough to remove / replace the gasket without also lowering the exhaust pipe too.

It looks as if there may just about be enough space to do the job, but I dread trying to undo the bolts at the downpipe to front pipe flange.

[Paddy]

I believe you have to drop off subframe unfortunately.

[MP]

Is that really the case...Eiks!!!

It doesn't look that complicated from underneath. I thought the only thing that would foul the removal of the sump would be the exhaust.

Guess I'll just keep topping her up instead.

Thanks