[Gremlinxman]

I just found out the oil pan in my 2000 Dakota is rusted thru and leaking oil. Is it a major job to replace it like I have to remove the engine? Anyone have this problem before? What are the fixes if any?
Thanks for any insight you can provide.

 

[Dj Wolf]

I am pretty sure the engine would have to be removed, not sure if lifting it would be enough. I think I have a spare oil pan if you need it.

 

[durango2001]

you 2wd or 4wd , i know for sure you can just lift it on a 2wd and get it off had to do it to replace the oil pump

 

[Gremlinxman]

you 2wd or 4wd , i know for sure you can just lift it on a 2wd and get it off had to do it to replace the oil pump

My bad, Its a 4x4 its got 198K on it.
Im afraid it would have to come out. Im sure the exhaust is rusted along with all the bolts and it wont be an easy job. I have an engine lift and all the tools.
.....I was hoping I could just unbolt the mounts and lift it up enough.....

 

[Sleepy From UK.]

Engine does'nt have to come out but front axle has to be dropped apparently.
I've not done one, but have looked up the procedure because my trucks going to need a new oil pan soon.

 

[petrock]

Engine does'nt have to come out but front axle has to be dropped apparently.

Thats how the dealer did mine when the gasket was leaking under warranty.

 

[jhoppy16]

yeah my oil pan leaks to, I havent done it because either the engine has to be lifted up a little bit or the axels have to be removed... I just stuck a screw in the hole and put Putty on it, Its one of those things i've had the truck 3 years... Fixed it 3 times.. usually every spring since i baught it i've done it.

 

[Gremlinxman]

So I know its been a while but I am finally ready to take on this task. I also need to replace the lower balljoints and bushings so I may as well do at the same time.
Has any one on here actually done this before? what exactly is involved?
Yes I am in need of a good oil pan what does one cost?
What else should I do while I am doing this project? The engine has 203K on it but still runs strong.
Thanks for all your help guys!
Davis
P.S. anyone in CT wanna help for beer?

 

[1reddurango]

The lower ball joints suck ass to do. I tried to do then myself but the AutoZone ball joint press rent a tool would not budge them. So I had to pull the lower A arms; which is a royal PITA; and take them to a shop. The shop I went to broke their 10 ton hyd press trying to push them out so they had to heat the A-arms cherry red and pound them out. They had another Durango in there and they had problems with it too. Rust is a bitch on cast iron a arms.

 

[Earthgal]

Oh yay! Just had new rotors and brakes put on and the mechanic said I might think about getting my oil pan replaced too. It's rusting but not through yet. I was hoping to find it wasn't that big of a job. Bummer. Found a guy that says he can change it for $500 plus parts. Is that a deal? He says he would have to practically remove the engine. I already know it needs exhaust work. I think this is going to turn into a major chore!! I've been doing my research and everywhere I've looked tells me it's a timely PITA. Hopefully it holds out until I can save up the money!