RegularGuy's 'Ranger Retention Project'

[RegularGuy]

Got the truck back from the driveline shop on Tuesday. The bearings throughout the entire rear end were hammered, pinion bearing may as well have been non-existent. The gearset however was looking beautiful.

Still trying to figure out exactly what it is I need for my seats, there are some worn spots I'd like to address. Has anyone repaired worn leather before? As I understand, seeing there are no holes the process goes clean, glue, condition, seal? A specialized product being used for each

 

[RegularGuy]

Here's a reminder to check your transfer case fluid, probably shouldn't look like motor oil....


Rear main seal has been getting worse on the truck but there doesn't seem to be a write up on the best route for repair, I'd guess pulling the transmission and transfer-case? Looking for advisement on that one... Additionally, if anyone knows what this big black bolt is, it appears to be leaking oil (it's on the side of the cylinder head)

It could be valve covers, but I'd like to know what I'm looking at regardless

 

[Uncle Gump]

That's your timing chain tensioner...

 

[RegularGuy]

Ah I was wondering what that was, wouldn't have figured that out for a while.... Any ideas on the seal replacement? (easier to pull transmission or the engine)