'99 Durango 5.2 4WD Oil Pan Gasket question

[Stranger]

Hi guys. I'm sure somebody has the answer to this.

Short of pulling the 5.2 out, what's the best way to change the oil pan gasket?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Wayne M.]

Drop the front axle? Iirc the axle and engine mounts are shared. I dont think its all that bad.

 

[Stranger]

Thanks, Wayne.

Maybe I'm over thinking this but, what about the control arms?
The axle/differential will lower and the CV joints flex to accommodate?

 

[Wayne M.]

I've never done it, but it looks like that all stays. The shafts are flanged so they just unbolt and the axle housing is bolted in iirc. Once you peel the skid plates etc, it will be obvious.

 

[Bob4x4]

4WD

Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
Remove engine oil dipstick.
Raise vehicle.
Drain engine oil.
Remove front driving axle. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL and DRIVELINE.
Remove both engine mount support brackets.
Remove transmission torque converter inspection cover.
Remove oil pan and one-piece gasket.