Replacing Oil Pan Gasket In A '87 Taurus 3.0

If you notice a trail of oil following your 1987 Ford Taurus, it may be a sign of a worn-out oil pan gasket. Oil leakage can keep the engine from functioning as it should, and if the problem isn't repaired, it can shorten the car's life. The oil pan gasket seals the surfaces between the oil pan and the lower part of the engine block. An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. In this article, we will discuss the steps to replace the oil pan gasket in a 1987 Taurus 3.0.

Jack up the car and remove the oil pan

To replace the oil pan gasket on a 1987 Taurus 3.0, you'll need to jack up the car and remove the oil pan. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do this safely:

Park and Secure the Car

First, find a suitable location to work on the car. Look for a flat, level surface, preferably paved with concrete or asphalt. Avoid soft or uneven terrain, as it can be dangerous if the ground shifts or the jack changes position unexpectedly.

Park your car and engage the parking brake. If your car has a manual transmission, put it in first gear as well. This will prevent the car from moving unexpectedly.

Block the Wheels

Place wheel chocks, wood blocks, or bricks behind the wheels to prevent the car from rolling. If you're lifting the front, chock the rear wheels, and vice versa. You can also turn the wheels inward if parked on an incline.

Position the Jack and Raise the Car

Refer to your 1987 Taurus owner's manual to identify the proper jack placement points. Typically, there are jack points near each wheel, and additional ones between the front and rear wheels.

Position a hydraulic jack or a scissor jack under the car frame at the selected jack point. When using a hydraulic jack, place the handle into the body and pump it smoothly to raise the jack until it contacts the car frame. With a scissor jack, insert the rod and crank it to raise the jack.

Place the Jack Stands

Once the car is raised to the desired height, place jack stands under the car frame near the jack. Jack stands provide a secure and stable support for the vehicle. Use pin-type or screw-type jack stands, following the manufacturer's instructions to adjust their height and lock them in place.

Slowly lower the car onto the jack stands until it is securely resting on them. You can now remove the jack or leave it in place for added security.

Remove the Oil Pan

With the car securely supported on the jack stands, you can proceed to remove the oil pan. Loosen the bolts holding the oil pan one at a time and carefully remove it. You may need to use a mallet and a screwdriver to loosen it gently, being careful not to scrape the surface.

Remember, working under a vehicle can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Ensure the car is securely supported on jack stands before proceeding with any repairs.

Clean the oil pan surface

To clean the oil pan surface, you'll need to remove the old gasket and clean the sealing surface thoroughly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Remove the Old Gasket: Use a plastic or composite scraper to carefully remove the old gasket from the oil pan. Be gentle to avoid damaging the soft aluminium surface. You can also use a wire brush or metal-brush sandpaper for this task. If there are any stubborn residues, you can use a gasket remover solution to dissolve them.
• Clean the Oil Pan Surface: Once the old gasket is removed, clean the sealing surface of the oil pan with a paper towel or a clean cloth dipped in a solvent. Ensure that the surface is perfectly clean and free of any oil residue. You can use a detergent like Simple Green, which is effective in breaking down oil. Wipe the surface until it is clean and free of any dirt or grease.
• Prepare the Surface: After cleaning, apply a small amount of clean oil to the sealing surface. This will help prepare the surface for the new gasket.

It is important to wear gloves and protective clothing during this process, as the oil can be very hot and messy. Additionally, always be cautious when working with chemicals and solvents, and ensure the work area is well-ventilated.

Apply oil to the sealing surface

Once you've removed the old gasket, it's important to clean the sealing surface of the oil pan. Use a paper towel or a clean cloth dipped in solvent to ensure the surface is perfectly clean.

Now, apply a small amount of clean oil to the sealing surface. This is an important step as it will ensure the new gasket functions effectively.

Take your new gasket and put it in place. Reattach the oil pan, torque the bolts according to the specifications for your vehicle, and reconnect the engine components in the reverse order they were removed.

Finally, lower the car using the jack and remove the jack stand. Reconnect the negative battery cable and you're almost done!

Now, replace the oil with 4.5 quarts of oil and check the level with a dipstick. Your Ford Taurus will require between 4.5 and 5 quarts of oil.

Install the new gasket

To install the new gasket, first, clean the sealing surface of the oil pan with a paper towel or a clean cloth dipped in solvent, ensuring that the surface is perfectly clean. Next, apply a small amount of clean oil to the sealing surface. Then, put on the new gasket, ensuring that it is correctly positioned. Reattach the oil pan, torque the bolts according to the manufacturer's specifications, and reconnect the engine components in the reverse order they were removed.

It is important to note that repairing your car yourself can be rewarding and cost-saving, but proper diagnosis is crucial to ensure the correct issue is addressed. It is recommended to refer to a repair manual or seek guidance from a professional if you are unsure about the process or have limited experience with car repairs.

Reattach the oil pan and refill the oil

Once you have removed the old gasket and cleaned the sealing surface, you can reattach the oil pan. First, apply a small amount of clean oil to the sealing surface. Then, put on the new gasket. Reattach the oil pan and torque the bolts according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Now, reconnect the engine components in the reverse order that you disconnected them. Lower the car with the jack and remove the jack stand. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Finally, replace the oil. You will need between 4.5 and 5 quarts of oil for your Ford Taurus. Check the level with a dipstick to be sure it's at the fill line. Add more oil if necessary.

Take the old oil to a garage or a hazardous waste facility for proper disposal.

Frequently asked questions