I'm having a hell of time trying to get the trans pan to drop on my 97 XJ.
- I've removed the cross member
- I detached the dipstick tube from the bell housing
- I've got all the bolts around the pan removed

I just can't get the dipstick tube to separate and the exhaust is also blocking it from easily dropping. I've tried to jimmy certain angles to get it to drop, but it seems that having the entire dipstick tube attached is keep it from getting enough of an angle.

Any one got any tips?

I'd like to not have to cut the tube if possible as I've seen someone else on the forum post pictures about.

 

if you follow the dip stick up a lil there is a split in it, its a 2 peice dipstick, re attach it to bellhousing and work it free, i just did mine last week, it was a ***** to come apart but was the only way your gettin it out unless you bend your dip stick then it wont line back up when you go to bolt it down, if you get it apart use some kind of sil glyde or dy electric on the oring when you put it back together it will make it tons easier

 

Thanks.

I guess I'll try a bit harder to get the dipstick tube apart. First some PB, then maybe some heat on the lower tube to get it to expand some.

 

Ours will never be difficult again..........small tubing cutter, 1/2" rubber fuel line and clamps.