450k Engine pull

[Hermly]

I have decided that I’m going to pull the engine in my ranger to make a upcoming cooling system replacement a tad easier. I figured this would be a good opportunity to replace the oil pump and take a good look at the inside of the engine.So before I get into it i got a few questions.

1. On the 3.0l the fan clutch has a LH thread right?

2. With the manual transmission is it easier to pull transmission first?

3. What else would you check out on a high mileage Engine that’s never been opened up before?

 

[Curious Hound]

I think I remember mine being normal (RH) threads. But I wouldn't bet a paycheck on it.

The manual transmission is easy to pull. I would get it out of there before pulling the engine. It can be done either way. Seems to me the engine would be easier to handle if it was lighter and shorter, ie; no transmission attached.

 

[pjtoledo]

on fan clutches the thread direction is such that a running engine tightens the fan.
turn it the same direction as it normally runs to remove it.

how was oil consumption?? did you do a compression test?

the front timing cover is a notorious leaker, replace the gasket & check cover for pitting.
timing gear set while you're in there, front & rear seal, all gaskets, take sync unit out to inspect gear,
water pump and lots of other stuff.

 

[Hermly]

on fan clutches the thread direction is such that a running engine tightens the fan.
turn it the same direction as it normally runs to remove it.

how was oil consumption?? did you do a compression test?

the front timing cover is a notorious leaker, replace the gasket & check cover for pitting.
timing gear set while you're in there, front & rear seal, all gaskets, take sync unit out to inspect gear,
water pump and lots of other stuff.

Oil consumption is minimal, just the one leak at the front of the oil pan where the gasket pushed out. Compression was good about a year ago when I was chasing down an ignition issue.
Thanks for the rest of the suggestions,