Any tips on replacing the rusting oil pan on my 2003 1500 van?

 

I tried this job and quickly realized that the crossmember had to come out or the engine had to go up...
I said screw that and had it done by at the shop LOL

I hope someone can verify this

 

Thanks for the info. That is what I thought might have to happen. My auto repair guy said he can do it for $560.00. Nothing but rust problems with this van. Already had both front frames welded.

 

I'm dealing with the same thing right now, engine has to be lifted up. Major pain in the ***.

While the shop is in there have them put in a new pickup tube/screen. Mine has gotten clogged/dirty in the past and the labor to just get that done is nuts.

 

If the engine has a lot of miles, replace the oil pump with a high vloume unit. This will compensate for worn bearings and extend the engine life.

 

Thanks, I had the oil pump replaced a few years ago but I might as well do it again while they are replacing the gasket/pan.

 

can you recommend a good oil pump? My van has 150k on it.

 

I think the brand I used to use is Melling. You don't want a high pressure pump. You want a high volume to compensate for worn bearings and bushings inside the engine. If yours has been replaced in the last few thousand miles, you may not need one. Was the timing chain replaced then also?

 

Thanks. No I havent had my timing chain done since i've owned it (11 years). Is it easily accessible with the oil pan off? When is it recommended to get a new one?

 

You don't really need to drop the pan to do the timing chain, but, it makes the task somewhat easier. Gotta pull the top bracket that the alternator, and a/c compressor mount to, (which means, they have to move as well) and the water pump, to get down to the timing chain cover. (might just as well replace the water pump, if you haven't in recent memory.)