This is my first post. In fact I just created this account to post this for discussion. A little back ground on me I'm a diesel mechanic and a welder. I have a 95 Ram 3500 with a Cummins. I have plenty of experience with Cummins engines and Dodge trucks; however this is my first Cummins Dodge. I am used to working on these engines in a school bus or other vehicles where you can raise the hood. I find it very frustrating to work on my truck; specifically the engine. I'm wondering if anyone has any suggestions on how to access things more easily. I'm wondering if anyone has ever modified the front crossmember for access to the oil pan for doing the gasket. Also, wondering if anyone has modified the inner fenders. Or, has anyone ever modified the front clip to be hinged at the front like a big truck?

 

I have seen one truck with the flip-up front clip, but, the guy that did it said it was a nightmare, due to the way wiring was routed. That, and it required a LOT of fab work.

I usually just sit on the fender, and work under the hood, or, if I have the fan off, stand between the engine, and radiator. (efans make this really easy.) Modifying the crossmember on a 2wd truck? Not sure thats a good idea..... (assuming you are 2wd.... on the 4x4 trucks, dropping the pan is pretty easy. Very little in the way.)

Welcome to DF!

 

Get one of these...





They are called top side creepers. If you are a welder you should be able to make one for the price of the steel.

 

Oooo, I LIKE that. And not outrageously expensive either.