I have a 1999 dodge ram 1500 4x4 with the 5.2L v8. I just bought the truck and I was doing a tune-up of sorts and I noticed that there was no oil cap. I realize the issues that this could cause, so I ran to my Autozone and bought a new cap. I went to put the cap in and found that I could not fit the cap into where it is supposed to belong. I look into the plug spot and find that there is a plastic cap that is in there. The tank is sealed, and I was wondering how I was getting normal oil pressure without the top on it. Has anyone ever heard of this happening? Could that plastic cap be permanent? I was going to take it to Pepboys tonight, unless someone on here has a great idea.
Thanks guys

 

Can you post a picture of it?

 

Are you sure it's the oil cap? On driver side valve cover? If the top is broken off but the rest of it is in there it's ok- just will be a pita to get out. It has nothing to do with pressure- will lose a little oil out of it and dirt will get in so you want it on. Can you take a pic?

 

https://plus.google.com/photos/10580...CPnJgO6PwreyIQ
Here are pictures. Let me know if that link works

 

i have never seen that before, but id say take a hammer and flat head and see if u can spin that thing out.

 

I would totally like to take a hammer to this engine for many reasons. However, do you think I would damage the spot that you insert the oil cap?

 

Is that a new valve cover?? Looks awfully clean...

I would suspect that the oil cap just broke, and that's what's left.

 

^^^ Yep That's the bottom half of the cap. Just need to unscrew it from the valve cover, slip lock pliers should work.

 

Alright. Thanks a lot you guys

 

I'd take a pair of pliers, good sized set, and open them up in side of the broken cap so they are wedge then turn them counter clockwise until it was loose enough to remove by hand.

No need for a screwdriver and hammer.