i have a 1998 dodge dakota 5.2l 4x4 with 327xxxkms on her the oil has been leaking for quite sometime and since ive been doing alot of work into it fixing my intake/idle/sensors/ intake manifold cleaned out its running like a dream now was wondering if anyone had found a way to remove the oil pan without removing engine mounts, or front drive axels. i know to remove negative battery end, remove starter, inspection cover , jack up cross member, for clearance as the suspension should give it enough clearance to drop. undo the bolts but will is it enough clearance or should i remove the engine mount bolts to the frame and or remove front drive axle its been progressivley getting worse.

also how easy is it to change the rear main seal and oil screen?

 

there is a youtube video walk through , looks to be a extensive job... probably have skid plates to remove also...

 

if it's 4x4, the front diff has to come out no matter what unless you remove the engine from the vehicle.

for either 2WD or 4WD, engine needs to come up about 4-6" to get the pan off and clear the main caps and counterweights.

 

You wont even be able to get your socket to the bolts without removing the engine mounts. You have to remove everything to get it out. Its easier if you have someone to help you, but it shouldnt take more than a few hours to complete the job.