thanks everyone for the help!! I think I'll tackle the easier stuff (bypass hose, sending unit, upper hose) before I tear down for the timing chain gasket. thanks again! :-)

Dang, I'm sorry to hear about the fellers that had a timing chain housing leaking that sucks! That bypass hose will be easy to change if you remove the bracket that cradles your alternator and a/c compressor out of the way. Again get rid of them spring style hose clamps dont reuse them!

I had the exaxt same problem . I found the timing chain cover was the culprit . It was under the alternator and very difficult to see. The leak was intermittent like yours . hope this helps

I have a very similar problem with my 2001 Ram, leaking around the timing cover under the alternator. Are there any other seals that should be replaced, while I have it torn down?

While you are in there, change the timing chain and gears.

Yep to the chain and gears. Don't forget a the new o-ring for heater tube on the water pump and get a new bypass hose (goes from the pump to the intake manifold).

the timing chain gasket kit will come with a new front crank seal, so you'll replace it too.

when you remove the timing cover, the front 2 oil pan bolts must be removed. be very gentle separating the timing cover from the oil pan gasket and don't damage it. when reassembling, use a light coat of rtv all the gaskets including the top/front of the oil pan.

+2 on the bypass hose, mine leaked like a seive...and its in a terrible place to get at lol

Thanks guys, Am doing the Timing gears & chain, and now will do the by-pass hose as well, while accessable. Thans for the help!