Removing Oil Pan On A 1999 Dodge Ram: Step-By-Step Guide

Removing the oil pan from a 1999 Dodge Ram can be a challenging task. While it may seem like a straightforward process, there are several factors that can complicate the procedure. One of the main challenges is accessing the oil pan, which may require lifting the engine and removing the engine mounts. Additionally, there may be interference from the crankshaft, transmission, and cross member, which could necessitate turning the crank or lowering the cross member to gain sufficient clearance. It is also important to be cautious when removing rusted bolts, as they may require the use of a breaker bar or impact gun, along with the application of heat. Overall, removing the oil pan from a 1999 Dodge Ram can be a time-consuming and intricate process that may involve multiple steps and considerations.

Remove the oil filter to check if it has collapsed internally

To check if your oil filter has collapsed internally, you will first need to locate and remove it. This can be done by following these steps:

• Locate the oil filter: The oil filter on a 1999 Dodge Ram is typically located near the oil pan. It is a cylindrical or oval-shaped component made of metal or plastic and is usually black or silver in color.
• Prepare the workspace: Place a drain pan or container under the oil filter to catch any oil that may spill during removal. Have some rags or absorbent materials ready to wipe up any spills.
• Remove the oil filter: Use an oil filter wrench or a strap wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter. Turn the wrench in a counter-clockwise direction to unscrew the filter. If the filter is too tight to turn, you can try using a hammer to gently tap the wrench or use a filter removal tool to break the seal. Be careful not to damage the filter or the surrounding components.
• Inspect the oil filter: Once the oil filter is removed, place it on a clean surface or container. You can now inspect the filter for any signs of internal collapse.

A collapsed oil filter may exhibit the following characteristics:

• Physical deformation: The filter may appear crushed, caved-in, or distorted in shape.
• Damage to the filter media: The filter media, which is the filtering material inside the oil filter, may be damaged or torn, causing it to lose its structural integrity.
• Bypass valve malfunction: Check if the bypass valve is stuck open or closed. A malfunctioning bypass valve can lead to differential pressure issues, resulting in filter collapse.
• Oil contamination: Inspect the oil filter for any signs of contamination, such as coolant, condensation, or excessive debris. Contamination can affect the filter's performance and may indicate a problem with the lubrication system.

If you find that your oil filter has collapsed internally, it is important to document its removal and consider seeking recompense from the lube place, as mentioned in the forum post. A collapsed oil filter can be a symptom of a larger issue with the lubrication system or internal engine components. Therefore, it is recommended to seek professional assistance or refer to a repair manual for further guidance on diagnosing and addressing the underlying cause.

Lift the engine up a few inches

To remove the oil pan from a 1999 Dodge Ram, you will need to lift the engine up a few inches. This process requires careful planning and the right tools to ensure your safety and the protection of your vehicle. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin, it is crucial to have a clear plan of action. Identify the specific tools and equipment you will need, such as an engine hoist, engine stand, lift chain or lift plate, safety gear, and mechanic's tools. Familiarize yourself with the engine and its components, including the mounting points, transmission, and any obstacles that may interfere with the lift.

Unhook Non-Essential Components:

Disconnect everything attached to the engine, except for the transmission and mounting points. This includes hoses, wires, and other small parts that could be damaged during the lift. Removing the radiator and driveshaft is also recommended if you plan to work on the transmission.

Set Up the Hoist:

Position the engine hoist securely, ensuring it can handle the total weight of the engine, transmission, and any attached accessories. Adjust the crane's reach to match the required height. Securely attach the lifting plate or chains to the designated lifting points on the engine.

Lift the Engine:

Pump the hoist to remove slack and slightly lift the engine. This initial lift should be just enough to relieve tension on the motor mounts. Once you've achieved this, carefully unbolt the motor mounts. If the transmission is not being removed, separate it from the engine by pulling the engine forward.

Now, you can proceed to lift the engine a few inches. Ensure nothing is still connected, and carefully inspect the area. This step is crucial for safety and avoiding potential damage to nearby components.

Clear the Engine of the Vehicle:

Get the car out from under the engine by either pulling the vehicle away or carefully moving the hoist. Take your time during this step to avoid any accidental swings or collisions that could damage the engine or the vehicle.

Bring the Engine to the Stand:

Once the engine is clear, lower it down by opening the release valve. Get the weight as low as possible to make it easier and safer to transport. Carefully roll the hoist to the engine stand, ensuring the path is clear and free of obstacles. Securely bolt the engine to the stand, then release the tension completely.

Safety Precautions:

Throughout this process, prioritize your safety and the protection of your vehicle and engine. Always wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from sharp edges and debris. Never work under a lifted engine or crane, and avoid jerking or abrupt movements that could cause instability. Ensure the hoist and all equipment are properly secured and able to handle the weight of the engine.

By following these steps and staying cautious, you can safely lift the engine of your 1999 Dodge Ram and gain access to the oil pan for removal or further maintenance.

Loosen the crankshaft and the transmission mount

To remove the oil pan from a 1999 Dodge Ram, you need to loosen the crankshaft and the transmission mount. This is because there is limited clearance between the bell housing of the transmission and the cross member, so you need to create more space to remove the oil pan.

First, check if the crankshaft is causing any interference. If it is, you may need to turn the crank to gain a little more clearance.

Next, loosen the transmission mount. This will involve removing any bolts or fasteners holding the transmission mount in place. Be sure to support the transmission or engine with a jack or stand to prevent it from moving or falling once the mount is loosened.

Once the transmission mount is loosened, you can adjust its position to create more clearance for the oil pan removal. Ensure that there is nothing obstructing the area above the engine or transmission when performing this step.

After adjusting the transmission mount, re-check the clearance between the bell housing and the cross member. You should now have enough space to remove the oil pan.

Remember to work safely and securely when performing these steps, and always support the engine or transmission to prevent any accidental movement or damage.

Remove the engine mounts and jack up the engine

Removing the engine mounts and jacking up the engine is a crucial step in accessing the oil pan of a 1999 Dodge Ram. Here is a detailed guide on how to safely and effectively complete this task:

Firstly, locate the engine mounts. These are usually found attached to the engine and the frame of the vehicle. They act as insulators and provide support for the engine. Before removing the engine mounts, ensure that the engine is securely supported by a floor jack or jack stands. This will prevent the engine from dropping unexpectedly when the mounts are removed.

Next, position a jack underneath the engine. If you are using a scissor jack, place it directly under the engine, following the jack points outlined in your manual. If you are using a floor jack, you have more flexibility in placement but should still refer to the manual for the recommended jack points. Once the jack is in position, slowly raise it until it makes contact with the engine.

Now, before removing the engine mounts, ensure that the engine is securely supported by the jack. You may need to adjust the height of the jack to ensure the engine is stable. With the engine securely supported, you can begin to remove the engine mounts. Use the appropriate tools to detach the mounts from the engine and the frame of the vehicle. Depending on your Dodge Ram model, there may be multiple mounts that need to be removed.

After removing the engine mounts, you can now jack up the engine. Slowly raise the jack until the engine lifts, releasing the weight off the engine mounts. Take care not to raise the engine too quickly or unevenly, as this may cause damage to the engine or surrounding components. Continue to raise the engine until you have sufficient clearance to access the oil pan.

Once the engine is raised to the desired height, it is important to secure it in place to prevent accidental lowering. You can do this by placing jack stands or support beams underneath the engine. Ensure that the engine is stable and cannot shift or move before proceeding with any repairs or maintenance.

Remember to work with a partner whenever possible, as engine removal and repair can be a challenging task. Always refer to your Dodge Ram manual for specific instructions and safety precautions, and only proceed if you are confident in your abilities.

Remove the oil pump from the rear main bearing cap

To remove the oil pump from the rear main bearing cap of a 1999 Dodge Ram, follow these steps:

First, you will need to remove the oil pan. This will involve unbolting the engine mounts and jacking up the engine. Make sure you have enough clearance by checking the crankshaft and, if necessary, turning the crank to gain more space.

Next, you will need to remove the oil pump strainer and loosen the trans mount. Ensure that nothing is in the way when jacking up the motor.

Now, you can proceed to remove the oil pump from the rear main bearing cap. Here are the detailed steps:

• Pull the starter.
• Remove the transmission inspection cover.
• Remove both braces that go from the motor to the transmission.
• Remove the dipstick from the tube.
• Drop the oil pan.
• Remove the oil pump.
• Remove the main cap.

After you have removed the oil pump, you can install a new one. Here are the installation steps provided by a Dodge mechanic:

During installation, slowly rotate the pump body to ensure driveshaft-to-pump rotor shaft engagement. Unless you have removed the distributor, align the distributor with the oil pump shaft when installing the distributor. Hold the oil pump base flush against the mating surface on the No.4 main bearing cap. Finger-tighten the pump-attaching bolts. Tighten the attaching bolts to 41 Nm (30 ft. lbs.) torque. Install the oil pan.

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