I finally got underneath my truck (98 Ram 1500 4x4 5.2) this morning to figure out why it is leaking fluids. I cleaned it up a bit before I took these pics.






Just looking at it, I am not very clear as to where the oil is coming from. Is it the oil pan seal or the main seal that is the culprit?

Also, I noticed this oil spot on the front passenger side axle (vacuum shift motor I believe). Is it my imagination or does this seem like a completely separate leak? I can't picture how the oil would be getting from the back/drivers side of the oil pan area all the way over to the passenger side of the front axle.




Thanks guys

 

2 separate leaks.

you can reseal the cad with rtv. spray the 4 little bolts liberally with PB blaster or similar product for a couple of days before you remove them. they're prone to break. penetrating oil seems to help. if the original metal backed gasket is still on there be sure to get it off. it sort of looks like the axle housing...

i can't tell about the oil leak. spray it down with brake cleaner and wipe it clean clean clean, then see where the new oil comes from. rear main tends to run down the back side of the inspection cover/bell housing. oil pan will run down front side of the cover.

 

A leaking valve cover will put oil there. It might not be a valve cover leak, but always check the easy things first.

 

Also make sure the filter is on tight. But +1 on the valve covers. That is a typical leak on these engines. Bolts like to loosen off when you drive.

 

I have always had good luck spending $7.00 on a small bottle of dye, then use my black light, leaves a perfect glowing trail. make sure to get the right stuff, they have a dye for oil and one for coolant and the bottle looks similar.

 

And don't put it in the windshield fluid reservoir.