Replacing Oil Pan On E150 Van: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the oil pan on a Ford E-150 van can be a challenging task, as demonstrated by a user on a Ford forum who described it as the hardest job they had ever done. The process involves multiple steps, including removing the engine oil pan and gasket, draining the oil, and potentially jacking up the engine and transmission. Some people have reported difficulties in removing the oil pan due to limited clearance, requiring creative solutions to access the necessary bolts. It is recommended to have the vehicle on a lift and to use air tools for a more efficient process. Given the complexity of the task, it may be advisable to seek professional assistance or refer to a detailed guide specific to the vehicle's make and model.

Jack up the engine and transmission

Jacking up the engine and transmission of your E150 van is a crucial step in accessing and replacing the oil pan. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, and wooden blocks. It is also important to work on a flat, level surface to ensure stability. Place the jack at the front of the engine, centred, and positioned securely on a wooden block. This will provide a stable base and protect the oil pan from damage.

Loosen the engine and transmission mounts before jacking. This is essential, as it provides the necessary clearance to raise the drivetrain. Start by locating the mounts and unbolting them. With the mounts loose, you can now begin to jack up the engine and transmission together. Take care to go slowly and steadily, ensuring that the jack is secure and stable throughout the process.

Once the jack is in place and the engine and transmission are raised, you will need to support the weight with jack stands. Place the jack stands on either side of the jack, making sure they are secure and capable of bearing the weight. Now, you can carefully lower the engine and transmission onto the stands. Ensure the weight is evenly distributed and stable before proceeding.

With the engine and transmission securely raised and supported, you can now access the oil pan. This process may require some manoeuvring, as you'll need to fit your tools and hands into the tight space. Remember to take your time and work carefully to avoid any damage to the vehicle or yourself.

Finally, when you have completed the oil pan replacement, you can carefully lower the engine and transmission back into place. Reverse the process by raising the engine and transmission with the jack, removing the jack stands, and then slowly lowering the assembly back down. Ensure the engine and transmission are securely bolted into place, and you're done!

Disconnect the oil pump

To disconnect the oil pump as part of the process of changing the oil pan on an E150 van, follow these steps:

First, make sure you have jacked up the engine and transmission. It is recommended that you unbolt the motor mounts before doing this. You should also disconnect the negative battery cable and remove the radiator fan and main hoses.

Next, jack up the engine about 3 inches. You can then lift the engine as far as it will go, being careful to watch for any obstructions on top. You will need to cut two pieces of 4x4 lumber to the correct length to wedge between the engine mount and the frame. The driver's side will be about 7-8 inches long, square on both ends, and the passenger side will be shorter, about 4-5 inches with an angled side. Once you have the proper wedges cut and in place, slowly lower the engine onto the wood.

Now, you can begin to disconnect the oil pump. First, remove all the oil pan bolts. There should be 18 small ones on the sides and 4 large ones (two on the front, two on the back by the transmission). You will then need to reach in with an open-ended wrench and unbolt the oil pump (two bolts) and the sump (one bolt). Let them fall into the pan.

Finally, have a helper pull down on the exhaust cross pipe while you push the oil pan rearwards over the cross pipe. This will take some effort, but it will come through.

Remove the oil pan bolts

To remove the oil pan bolts, you will first need to jack up the engine and transmission. You should also unbolt the motor mounts before jacking up the drivetrain.

Next, you will need to disconnect the oil pump by reaching in with an open-ended wrench and unbolting it. Let the oil pump fall into the pan.

There should be 18 small bolts on the sides of the oil pan and four large ones—two at the front and two at the back by the transmission. Remove all of these bolts.

Once all the bolts are removed, rap on the oil pan with a mallet, and it will fall off.

Remove the oil and filter

To remove the oil and filter from your E-150 van, you'll need to locate the oil pan and drain the oil. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Locate the Oil Pan

Park your van on a level surface and allow the engine to cool down. Place a drain pan with a capacity of at least 5 quarts under the vehicle, positioned below the oil pan. The oil pan is a metal container attached to the bottom of the engine. You may need to raise the vehicle or crawl underneath to access it.

Step 2: Drain the Oil

Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan. Place a suitable container under the drain plug to catch the oil. Using the correct size wrench or socket, loosen and remove the drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely. This may take several minutes.

Step 3: Remove the Oil Filter

The oil filter is typically located near the oil pan. It is a cylindrical or can-shaped component with a metal or plastic casing. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter. Be careful, as the filter will contain residual oil, which may spill. Have a container ready to catch any spilled oil.

Step 4: Clean the Area

Once the oil has drained and the filter has been removed, use a clean rag or towel to wipe down the oil pan, drain plug, and surrounding areas. This will help to remove any residual oil, dirt, or debris. It is important to ensure that the area is clean before proceeding with the oil pan gasket replacement.

Step 5: Dispose of the Used Oil and Filter

Used engine oil and oil filters should be disposed of properly. Check with your local waste management guidelines or recycling centers to find an appropriate disposal location. Do not pour used oil down drains or into storm sewers, as it can contaminate water supplies and harm the environment.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the oil and filter from your E-150 van, preparing you for the next steps in the oil pan gasket replacement process. Remember to work carefully and refer to a qualified mechanic or repair manual if you have any questions or concerns.

Add new engine oil and filter

Once you have drained the old oil from the engine, you will need to add new engine oil and a new oil filter.

Firstly, make sure you have purchased the correct oil for your vehicle. Check your owner's manual for the recommended grade of oil. You can then purchase this oil, which will be available in different "weights" or viscosities. Oil is usually sold in quarts.

Next, locate the oil filler cap and remove it. If the dipstick measured below the "Add" line, pour in at least half a quart of oil. You can use a funnel or pour it directly into the hole. Be careful not to spill any oil on the engine, as it will smell as it burns off. Wipe up any spills with a towel.

Now, re-check the oil levels with the dipstick. If the oil level is still below the "Add" indicator, add the rest of the quart and check the oil levels again. When the oil level is close to the "Full" level, you are done.

Screw the oil filler cap back on and test to make sure it is secure. You can now start the engine and allow it to run for a couple of minutes. This will allow the oil to circulate and disperse throughout the engine.

Finally, turn off the engine and check the area around the oil filter for any signs of leaks. If there is a small amount of oil coming from the top of the filter, check that the oil filter is tight.

It is recommended that you re-check your oil levels in roughly 30 days.

Frequently asked questions