I was changing out the oil pan gasket on a customer's 2004 3.0l ford ranger. I first disconnected the battery, drained all the oil, removed starter bolts and put it aside on the frame. Now the no lift steps....... on the opposite side from the starter there is an inspection plate held on with 2 8 mm bolts that you need to remove. With some good side metal snips or a dremmel tool, cut the cover between the engine and the tranny in 4 spots. You want to make the cuts evenly between two of the starter bolts and between the 2 inspection bolts. A nice piece of the tranny cover will just slide out exposing it. Now you can take the oil pan off with no obstruction from the tranny cover. After properly reinstalling the oil pan, just slide the cut out piece back into place and throw a starter bolt to hold the one side up while you secure the inspection plate back Into place. Now you can reinstall the starter, all 4 of your cuts are secured into place with the starter and inspection plate. so there is still full protection from debris going into your belhousing and zero fuss dealing with the oil pan gasket service. Don't forget to add oil, start it up and check for leaks.