Oil pan repair / replacement
 

So, in the process of changing my oil, in a complete fit of stupidity, I managed to turn the oil drain plug the wrong way... for five minutes. In the end I put two nicely sized cracks (maybe half an inch to an inch each) in the oil pan.

Now I'm in the process of removing the oil pan.

Once I get it out, I will either need to get it professionally repaired (I don't think I want to use JB weld... some people don't have problems with this but I tend to have bad luck). So, does anyone (a) have any advice, (b) know any good aluminum welders in the Atlanta area, or (c) have an oil pan that does not leak that they are willing to sell?

Ok, well, I went to a local machine shop and had the oil pan welded. It seems to be fixed. Now, I'm wondering if I can get away without changing the oil pan gasket (#9: http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...59&hg=11&fg=10). I don't have a new one and would like to save myself some time if possible. It didn't leak before.

while its out REPLACE the gasket! you will kick yourself if you dont!