Oil Pan leak

[John Berger]

I've noticed that my oil pan is leaking around the bolts in the back by the bell housing and towards the front equally on both sides, probably about 3 or 4 bolts forward. The worst is by the bell housing. I torqued them down and seemed to have slowed the leak. Two questions. Is it possible to take the bolts out and use gasket maker? And is this wise? What is involved in taking off the oil pan and putting on a new gasket. It's not a bad leak, but with the Cummins tendency towards vibration, I probably will visit this issue again. Any suggestions are appreciated. By the way, I haven't posted in awhile, but I must weigh in with my assessment of the new Dodge Ram. Looks to much like a Ford from the side for my liking. Geeeshhh! What the he!! is DC thinking.

 

[JPittman]

John,



Go to this site:



http://dodgeram.org/tech/tsb/2001/09-006-01.htm



It shows the proper method of sealing that pan. Good luck.

 

[John Berger]

Thanks. At least I know there is a cause. I wonder if the dealer would repair it for free? :--)

 

[JPittman]

John,



If it's still under DC warranty or extended warranty, I'm sure they would cover it. If it was me, I would go in and ask.

 

[ramman]

Does the engine have to be pulled out for the gasket replacement?

 

[JPittman]

According to the 99 shop manual (9-221) under oil pan and suction tube, remove the pan, the transmission, transfer case (if equipped), flywheel, starter motor and transmission adapter plate assembly are to be removed. Then it goes on to talk about cleaning, inspection, and installation. Sounds like the pan can't be dropped wihout hitting the transmission.

 

[Sasquash]

John,



I had a leak at the oil pan also. DC repaired it for free under the Cummins warranty. It took them a full day to fix.