Oil pan gasket leak

[OdinAF]

So my oil pan on my 4.0 v6 is leaking bad. How hard is this to replace?

Just drain the block.
Unbolt the pan and pry it lose.
Clean the pan and block.
Stick in replacement gasket (do I need sealant?)
and bolt back in?

 

[wildbill23c]

I believe its that simple in the newer models, I know my 84 you have to loosen the engine mounting bolts and jack it up to get the pan out, I think the newer models were changed so you don't have to do that.

 

[doorgunner]

Be sure to clean the gasket surfaces (block & pan) with spray carb cleaner/any spray that does NOT contain oil-bases chemicals

 

[OdinAF]

I need someone who has done this before to verify, because looking at my Chilton, the bastards are telling me to remove the engine...

Ain't nobody got time for that!

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

It is recommended to pull the engine to get the pan out. It can be done by lifting the engine to get the pan out.

 

[OdinAF]

It is recommended to pull the engine to get the pan out. It can be done by lifting the engine to get the pan out.

good....I'm suddenly missing my modular 4.6 V8 .....

Also, changing the trans filter, do I use mercon V? someone said use dex/merc and then other post said dear god NO!!!

 

[RonD]

Oil pan gasket(like valve cover) is a gravity leak, so it can leave spots, but a "bad oil leak" could be front or rear main seal, those are pressure leaks and would be "bad".

If it is a gravity leak then make sure the PCV valve and hose are clean, and the Vent tube from valve cover/oil filler to air filter/plenum is clean with no cracks.
Both of these help reduce the air pressure inside the crankcase/valve cover areas, with lower pressure comes less oil being pushed out, it also helps lessen oil going into intake valve stem seals.

 

[Andy D]

Ford V8 pans rust out. Do V6 pan rust out? I replaced the RMS and the pan looked dry.